Initially, representatives of the city and county announced they were looking into whether and, if so, to what extent their residential eviction moratoriums (aka moratoria) applied as not inconsistent with the state law (AB 3088) signed by Governor Newsom on September 1. Now the city and county websites advise that only the new state law only applies. Renters can be evicted - but only for just cause and not for previously exercising any right to delay paying the rent. As the article indicates, the new state law eliminates for now use of a 3-day notice to pay past due rent or quit. It has become a 15-day notice with an opportunity to respond by completing a declaration (form accompanying the notice). You cannot be evicted by a landlord - only by the county sheriff pursuant to a court order obtained in an eviction lawsuit with which you (as a tenant) were served. Self-help "evictions" such as lockouts are illegal. If that happens, dial 911. For free legal help, contact the Law Foundation of Silicon Valley 408-280-2424. If you get any notice about terminating your tenancy or eviction, call immediately. Even if you just plan to move because you cannot afford to stay, talk to a lawyer about making a deal to leave.

@MV-Voice, the State launched a website - housingiskey.com - that provides Tenant and Landlord resources, info and forms. Their interactive tool can be of use to tenants and landlords in navigating what they should do for their particular situation: Web Link

Please also mention that the City provides a Rental Housing Helpline 650-282-2514 csfra@housing.org for tenants or landlords to contact with questions or to better understand their rights and responsibilities. We have been working tirelessly to understand and explain the ever changing legal landscape for renters and landlords.

MB Voice,

Thanks for the story. From what I can tell, there is no reason not to print out the declaration and sign it and give it to the landlord ahead of time.

My habit is to print it out twice, leave one at the landlord mailbox in my building, send a copy certified mail with return receipt every month.

Thereby I am providing good communications.