After notice that the tenancy will end, the landlord must notify the tenant of the option to request an initial inspection and the right to be present.
The initial inspection occurs within the statutory pre-move-out window when requested.
Unless the parties sign a written waiver of the 48-hour notice.
What happens at the initial inspection
When requested, the landlord or agent identifies repairs or cleaning proposed as the basis for deductions. The landlord must provide an itemized statement of those proposed items, giving the tenant an opportunity to remedy identified deficiencies before the tenancy ends when consistent with the lease and the parties’ rights.
Can a landlord later deduct something not listed?
The statute limits later deductions when an initial inspection was conducted and tenant possessions did not prevent identification, but it also recognizes exceptions for conditions that arise after the inspection or were hidden by possessions. The exact facts matter.
Final photographs
Beginning April 1, 2025, a landlord making covered repair or cleaning deductions must take photographs after possession is returned and before the work, then again after the repairs or cleaning are completed.
Official sources
Use these links to verify the rule directly. RentBillCheck prioritizes California statutes, courts and state-agency guidance over secondary summaries.
Primary law for residential security deposits, deductions, inspections, photographs and return/accounting requirements.
California Department of Real EstateCalifornia Tenants Guide — Moving Out ↗Official practical guidance on deductions, normal wear, carpet, painting, cleaning and inspections.
California Courts — Self-Help GuideGuide to security deposits in California ↗Official court self-help overview of deductions, the 21-day rule, documents and dispute options.