What is no-fault eviction is one of the most frequently asked questions among landlords and tenants navigating today’s challenging rental landscape. Recent changes in state and local law—especially California’s SB 567—have redefined what no-fault evictions mean, when they are allowed, and how they must be managed.
In this comprehensive guide from LeaseRunner, we will explain the no-fault eviction outline, valid reasons for no-fault eviction, review new restrictions, including notice templates and rent increase limits, and answer “when will no-fault evictions be banned” in different regions.
You’ll also find up-to-date advice on serving a proper no-fault eviction notice template and learn how to avoid pitfalls under stricter 2024 rules.
Quick Facts Table: What are No-Fault Evictions in 2024?
What Is a No-Fault Eviction?
A no-fault eviction is a legal process when a landlord ends a tenancy for reasons not related to the tenant's behavior. This process requires the landlord to give a minimum of two months’ written notice and adhere to specific legal procedures to make the eviction valid.
Common legal grounds for no-fault evictions include the landlord needing to move into the property personally, sell the property, or carry out major renovations that require the tenant to vacate.
No-fault eviction means:
- Termination of tenancy for the landlord’s needs, not the tenant's fault
- Examples: landlord or family move-in, sale of unit, major repairs
- In many states, strict laws control notice, reasons, and compensation.
How do No-Fault Evictions differ from At-Fault Evictions?
No-fault eviction is not about tenants breaking the rules; it’s about the landlord’s plans for the property. An “at-fault” eviction, by contrast, results when tenants:
- Fail to pay the rent
- Break major lease rules (smoking, pets, subletting)
- Damage the property
- Engage in illegal activities
In an at-fault eviction, the landlord must prove tenant wrongdoing in court. In no-fault eviction, the key element is the landlord’s lawful and documented intent, such as intent to occupy, sell, or conduct major renovations.
Important distinction:
- No fault = landlord’s decision for property use, not tenant conduct
- At fault = tenant action or inaction violates the lease
Landlords must understand this distinction and never use a no-fault eviction notice template as a shortcut for at-fault scenarios, as this now carries heavy penalties in places like California.
Here is a summarized table clarifying the legal rights, obligations, compensation, burden of proof, and responsibilities in no-fault versus at-fault (fault) eviction scenarios based on available information:
No-fault Eviction Notice Template
Here is a clear and practical “No-fault Eviction Notice Template" you can use or adapt, based on a commonly accepted format for legally notifying tenants without alleging any fault on their part:
This template covers key points: identification of parties, property address, clear notice of tenancy termination date, statement of no-fault reasons, and consequences for non-compliance. Make sure to customize the dates, reasons, and contact details as per your applicable jurisdiction's laws and notice requirements
Common Reasons for No-Fault Evictions
Let’s break down five reasons for no-fault eviction most frequently recognized by law. These reasons are explicitly recognized by law and include landlord’s personal or business plans for the property that require the tenant to vacate. The most commonly acknowledged grounds for no-fault evictions are as follows:
1. Owner Move-In or Family Use
A classic scenario is when the owner, or an immediate family member, needs to live in the property as their primary residence. Laws require “good faith”—the stated person must actually move in and stay for a required period, often a year or more. Using a no-fault eviction notice for a fake move-in is a violation under SB 567.
2. Sale of the Property
Many local rules allow a no-fault eviction if the property is being sold and the buyer will move in. Proof is crucial: SB 567 now requires landlords to attach a sale contract or similar documentation to the no-fault eviction notice. Failing to do so may invalidate the termination.
3. Substantial Renovation or Repairs
If staying in the unit during major work is impossible, landlords may serve a no-fault eviction notice for renovations. Renovations must be “substantial”—for example, complete plumbing replacement or major structural repairs. Cosmetic updates (new paint, new carpet) do NOT qualify.
4. Withdrawal from Rental Market or Demolition
Landlords sometimes withdraw property from the rental market altogether—often to demolish, convert to condos, or leave vacant for redevelopment.
In California, the Ellis Act provides landlords with the right to withdraw a property permanently from the residential rental market, but statewide SB 567 now adds additional requirements—such as new notice templates, clearer documentation, and sometimes mandatory relocation assistance—for all types of no-fault evictions, including but not limited to those under the Ellis Act.
These changes ensure stronger, enforceable protections for tenants and greater accountability for landlords conducting no-fault evictions.
5. Legal or Compliance Reasons
If a building is declared unsafe, condemned, or unlivable by order of a local government, a no-fault eviction can be justified. Tenants must vacate for their safety or because repairs cannot occur with anyone present.
No-Fault Evictions by Region: What Landlords Should Know
The meaning of no-fault evictions varies significantly by region, affecting when and how landlords can lawfully end a tenancy without tenant fault. Understanding these regional differences is essential for landlords to comply with local requirements, give proper notice, and avoid legal penalties.
Here is an overview of key regions and their notable no-fault eviction rules:
- California: Landlords can only use no-fault eviction for specific reasons, such as owner or family move-in, withdrawal from the rental market (Ellis Act), substantial renovations, or compliance with government orders. Since April 2024, SB 567 imposes stricter documentation, standardized notice templates, and requires relocation assistance in most cases.
- New York: Statewide “Good Cause” eviction laws prohibit no-fault evictions except under narrowly defined scenarios like owner occupancy or sale to an owner-occupant. Extra tenant protections exist in New York City and other municipalities, requiring valid cause and limiting rent increases.
- Oregon: Generally bans no-cause evictions after a tenant’s first year, except for limited justifications including owner move-in, property sale with occupant, major repairs, or withdrawal from the market. Notice periods and sometimes relocation payments are required, especially in urban areas like Portland.
- Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Arizona: These states mostly allow landlords to end tenancies without cause at lease end or on periodic tenancies with proper notice. However, they lack statewide “just cause” eviction laws, placing the burden on local ordinances where they exist.
- Massachusetts: No-fault evictions are allowed at lease end with advance notice, but some municipalities push for stronger tenant protections and restrictions on no-fault evictions.
- United Kingdom (England and Wales): Currently permits no-fault evictions through Section 21 notices, but ongoing reforms seek to eliminate such notices in favor of just cause grounds, tightening tenant protections substantially.
- Local Ordinances: Many cities and counties impose stricter no-fault eviction rules than their states, including requiring valid reasons (“just cause”), longer notice periods, and sometimes financial assistance to displaced tenants. Landlords must always check both state and local laws to ensure compliance.
When will no-fault evictions be banned? For most of the US, no outright ban exists; instead, there is increasing regulation, especially in high-cost or high-density markets. Always check local laws before serving notice. For sample timelines, our detailed eviction process guide provides in-depth coverage of multiple states.
What Landlords Should Know
This summary highlights the key responsibilities and best practices landlords should follow to conduct no-fault evictions lawfully and protect tenant rights across different jurisdictions:
- Always identify the specific legal basis allowed in your jurisdiction before issuing a no-fault eviction.
- Use the correct, jurisdiction-specific eviction notice templates and provide all required documentation to tenants.
- Observe strict notice timing rules and deliver eviction notices properly (in person, certified mail, or as required).
- Prepare to pay relocation assistance or other tenant protections if mandated by law.
- Maintain detailed records to demonstrate compliance—this helps prevent legal challenges or penalties.
- Stay informed on changing laws, especially in areas undergoing reform, to avoid unlawful evictions.
Overview of California’s SB 567: Key Changes for Landlords
SB 567, effective April 1, 2024, is California’s biggest change to “no fault eviction” rules in a generation.
What SB 567 Introduces?
- Stricter documentation: Landlords must attach sale agreements, work permits, or move-in statements to every no-fault eviction notice template.
- Proof of intent: Owner/family move-in must be under “good faith” and home occupied within 90 days.
- New fines: Violations can mean 3x tenant damages plus attorney fees.
- Rent increase restriction: Large “no-fault eviction rent increase” hikes used to drive out tenants are now illegal.
- Mandatory templates: Landlords must use new, state-approved notice forms with full disclosures.
New Restrictions on No-Fault Evictions
SB 567 blocks “bad faith” evictions for profit, rent hikes, or retaliation. Every no-fault eviction notice must show:
- Lawful cause
- Required evidence
- Notice periods (30/60 days)
- True intent (with proof attached)
Failure voids the notice and exposes landlords to lawsuits.
Enhanced Penalties for Violations
Penalties under SB 567 now include:
- Treble damages for wrongful removals
- Relocation payments (where required)
- Full legal fee awards to tenants
- Court orders blocking the completion of an illegal eviction
How SB 567 Builds on AB 1482 and Just-Cause Eviction?
SB 567 is an update to California’s AB 1482 “just cause” law, which first added strict controls to tenant rights, notice periods, and valid landlord reasons in 2020.
Where AB 1482 was sometimes abused (fake move-ins, renoviction), SB 567 closes loopholes, increases transparency and documentation, and backs up tenant rights with direct financial penalties.
When Are No-Fault Evictions Allowed in California?
Landlords can only lawfully use no-fault eviction under specific circumstances defined by statute or local regulation, and only when they comply with all procedural requirements, such as notice periods, documentation, and tenant protections. The permitted reasons for no-fault eviction include:
- Owner or family move-in: When the landlord or an immediate family member intends to occupy the property as their primary residence and must actually move in and live there for a minimum legally required period (often at least 12 months).
- Sale of the property: When the landlord sells the property and the buyer intends to personally occupy it, accompanied by proof of sale as required by law.
- Major or substantial remodel: When significant renovations or repairs are necessary that cannot be completed with the tenant in residence; minor or cosmetic repairs do not qualify.
- Withdrawal from the rental market (Ellis Act): When the landlord permanently withdraws the property from the rental market, following all applicable notice, documentation, and tenant relocation requirements.
Under SB 567, landlords are legally permitted to issue a no-fault eviction only for specific, documented reasons as above. Any attempt to use a no-fault eviction notice for other reasons—or as a pretext to evict tenants based on their behavior—is strictly prohibited and considered unlawful.
Landlord Notice Requirements in No-Fault Evictions
The no-fault eviction notice template must state:
- Valid reason under SB 567
- Tenant rights/disclosures (relocation, notice period)
- Supporting documents (sales contract, construction permits, signed intent)
- Timeline for vacancy (30/60 days as law directs)
Required Notice Period (30/60 Days)
- 60 days: If the tenant has lived in the unit for a year or longer
- 30 days: If the tenant is under one year, or as a local exception
- Notice is ONLY valid when the tenant actually receives it—mailing it is not enough.
Eviction notices must be delivered using legally accepted methods to ensure proper notification and avoid delays. These include personal delivery to the tenant, leaving the notice with a responsible adult at the tenant’s residence or workplace plus mailing a copy, or posting the notice on the property combined with mailing it.
Proper documentation of when and how the notice was served is essential for enforcement in court. For more delivery and serving rules, see LeaseRunner’s notice delivery checklist.
Formatting Guidelines for Notice Template
- Follow state/local sample forms exactly—missing details void the notice.
- Clearly label owner/family names, move-in intent, and attach all documents.
- Add relocation info if required by the city or state.
- Use the latest template available from legal or city websites—don’t DIY.
Required Documentation for Valid No-Fault Eviction
- Proof of move-in: Statement of owner or family plus signed intent
- Sales contract: Executed sales document with buyer/occupant’s info
- Construction/renovation plan: Licensed contractor’s timeline and permit
- Missing paperwork always means a failed eviction.
Providing Relocation Assistance to Tenants
- In California cities like LA and SF, relocation payments are now mandatory in many “no fault” cases.
- Amount varies by city, tenant income, and duration of tenancy.
- No payment = no valid notice!
- Landlords must include explicit relocation payment info in the no-fault eviction notice template.
What Are the Risks and Legal Considerations for Landlords in No-Fault Evictions?
Navigating what is a no-fault eviction is more complex than ever, especially as laws tighten and tenant protections grow. Landlords must understand both legal landmines and practical dangers.
Each step in a no-fault eviction—from serving notice to final court judgment—has new pitfalls. A single error can trigger delays, lawsuits, or even heavy financial losses.
Below, we break down core legal considerations and real-world risks, using clear examples and ensuring every key phrase—like no-fault eviction notice template or reasons for no-fault eviction—is applied throughout.
Legal Considerations
When planning a no-fault eviction, landlords must master the letter of the law. With new laws like SB 567, strict guidelines now apply to each no-fault eviction notice template. The process is increasingly complex and regulated.
States like California now require airtight documentation, strict timelines, and absolute good faith. Here’s how mistakes easily become costly:
Due Process Is Required
Every no-fault eviction must fully follow all state and local steps. If you skip even a small requirement—such as missing a disclosure on the no-fault eviction notice template or failing to provide supporting paperwork—the entire process may collapse.
For example, a landlord in San Francisco issues a notice to vacate for major repairs but forgets to include a city-mandated relocation statement. The court throws out the case, forcing the process to restart.
Notice Requirements
Notice is everything. A partly completed or poorly worded no-fault eviction notice template will likely be challenged. In Los Angeles, omitting proof of sale or failing to attach move-in intent for owner-occupancy is a common pitfall.
If you serve notice for a “substantial remodel” but only cite cosmetic paint or flooring upgrades, tenant lawyers can show this wasn’t a valid reason for no-fault eviction.
Restrictions Due to Local Laws
Local rules override state norms in many big cities. In places like Portland and New York City, landlords face longer notice periods (90 days is not unusual), larger relocation payments, and stricter reasons for no-fault eviction.
For instance, a landlord in San Francisco might intend to demolish the building, but if relocation funds aren’t paid according to city law, the eviction is void—even with a template that meets state guidelines.
Prohibited Retaliation
Retaliatory acts remain high-risk. If you file a no-fault eviction soon after a tenant files a housing code complaint or organizes other tenants, courts may presume retaliation. This is barred at both the state and federal levels. If proven, the case can be dismissed, and the landlord may owe punitive damages—especially under current SB 567 rules.
Court Supervision
Contested cases mean the judge will scrutinize every document, step, and reason for the eviction. If a single supporting form is missing, or if the no-fault eviction notice template uses outdated language, the judge may protect the tenant and penalize the landlord.
Risks for Landlords
Even if your no-fault eviction seems justified, the risks are many, and the costs can escalate quickly.
Legal Liability
Landlords can face harsh penalties for botched no-fault eviction attempts. Falsifying reasons, failing to deliver required notice, or skipping relocation payments can result in penalties of up to three times the tenant’s losses, as mandated by SB 567. A landlord who falsely claims an owner move-in, then re-rents the unit at a higher price, risks both damages and public censure.
Delays and Costs
Mistakes on notices or missing documents make cases drag on for many months. Each invalid no-fault eviction notice restarts the clock, delaying a new rental and adding unpaid months to your losses. Meanwhile, you may rack up thousands in attorney fees—sometimes more than the value of the lease.
Tenant Claims
With the tenant-friendly changes brought by SB 567, tenants can counterclaim for wrongful eviction, retaliation, or forced displacement. Legal aid groups help tenants defend themselves, often at no cost.
Emotional distress claims are now more likely to be heard, increasing exposure for landlords who bend rules or misapply no-fault procedures.
Tenant Vulnerability and Public Scrutiny
Disputes over no-fault eviction—especially when involving seniors, families, or low-income renters—attract media and public attention. Bad press can harm your standing as a landlord far beyond a single case, drawing protests or even spurring local lawmakers to push new restrictions.
Consider the backlash seen in cities debating when no-fault evictions will be banned—public perception can guide future regulation.
Limits from Insurance Policies
Many landlord insurance policies include clauses voiding coverage for illegal or faulty evictions. If a court rules your no-fault eviction invalid, you may lose coverage, face higher premiums, or shoulder all damages yourself.
Potential Cash-for-Keys and Settlement Risks
When things go wrong—say, a missed deadline or invalid reason—landlords often turn to “cash for keys,” offering tenants money to move out fast, even if the eviction would fail in court.
But if this negotiation is not handled with clear documentation, tenants may take the cash and still sue, or share tactics with neighbors. Worse, settling under duress can empower future tenants to demand even more.
Conclusion
What no-fault eviction means in 2024 is very different from just a few years ago. California’s SB 567, along with local “just cause” rules across the country, now make it harder for landlords to end a lease for personal or business reasons without strict documentation, proper notice, and compensation.
Using an accurate no-fault eviction notice template isn’t just a formality—it protects you from court delays, penalties, and serious liability. Always research the latest legal standards in your area, prepare notices and supporting documents meticulously, and use tools like LeaseRunner’s eviction check resources to keep your rental business compliant.
By following these steps and understanding the aspects of no-fault eviction meaning, you can safeguard your property, avoid disputes, and treat tenants fairly. Stay up-to-date and work with experts to ensure successful and legal tenancy transitions.
FAQs
Can a Landlord Evict Without Cause in 2024?
No—in most parts of California and many major U.S. cities, landlords cannot simply evict tenants without legal cause. “No fault eviction” is allowed only for SB 567-recognized reasons with proper proof.
Is No-Fault the Same as Just Cause?
Not quite. Just cause includes both no-fault (landlord plans like move-in, sale, or major repairs) and at-fault reasons (tenant violations). No fault eviction always comes from a lawful landlord's need, not tenant wrongdoing.
Are Rent Increases a Form of No-Fault Eviction?
Not anymore. Large, sudden “no-fault eviction rent increase” hikes used to displace tenants are now banned under SB 567 and similar laws. Increases must follow cost and inflation rules; otherwise, they’re treated as illegal evictions.
How Long Does a No-Fault Eviction Take in California?
With new rules, the timeline is often at least 60 days’ notice, plus time for tenant review and possible court challenges. Delays for incomplete documentation or template errors are common. For more details, our in-depth eviction timeline overview explains each step.
