Receiving an eviction notice for unpaid rent is a frightening experience. It is natural to feel uncertain about what will happen next. In California, however, this notice is only the first required step a landlord must take before filing a court case. It does not mean you have to leave right away, and it does not mean you are without rights.

By reading the notice carefully and paying attention to deadlines, you can give yourself the best chance to resolve the situation.

Read the Eviction Notice and Confirm the Deadline

Most non-payment cases start with a 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit. This gives you three court days to either pay the full amount due or move out. Weekends and court holidays do not count toward the deadline.

The notice should clearly state the total rent owed, the period it covers, who the payment should be made to, and where it should be delivered. Keep a copy of the notice and save any receipts, bank records, or other proof of payment. These records may be important later.

Check Whether the Notice and Service Were Proper

California law requires the landlord to serve the notice in an approved way (personal delivery, substituted service with mailed copy, or posting plus mail). A notice that omits the amount owed, misstates the period, demands forbidden late fees, or is served the wrong way can be challenged later in court.

If a Lawsuit Is Filed, Respond on Time

If the landlord files an Unlawful Detainer case, you will receive a Summons and Complaint. You usually have five court days to file your Answer (Form UD-105). Missing the deadline risks a default judgment and a sheriff’s lockout without trial.

Your Answer lets you deny inaccurate allegations and raise defenses in court. File your Answer at the clerk’s office, or electronically if your court permits, and make sure the landlord is served as required by the rules.

Possible Defenses in Non-Payment Cases

You may raise defenses such as:

• Wrong amount demanded or rent already paid.
• Serious repair problems affecting habitability (mold, leaks, pests, unsafe wiring) with notice to the landlord.
• Improper notice or service.
• Refusal to accept timely payment.
• Local protections or repayment ordinances were not followed.
• Retaliation or discrimination.

Bring photos, repair requests, receipts, texts, and witnesses. Dates and details matter.

Payment Plans, Mediation, and Assistance

You can contact your landlord to request a written repayment schedule. Many courts and cities offer mediation, which can pause tensions and produce a clear plan. Ask about rental assistance, utility aid, and legal aid in your county. Keep records of every application and response; attach copies to your Answer if relevant.

Keep track of important dates, store all documents in one folder, and attend every hearing. You protect your position by meeting each deadline and bringing solid proof.

Rely on Stop Eviction Consultants for Eviction Support

At Stop Eviction Consultants, we offer eviction help in Los Angeles County, including tenant unlawful detainer defense. We also provide eviction assistance in Orange County, San Bernardino, Ventura, Riverside County, and throughout Southern California. Our services include eviction document preparation and complete eviction defense support. Contact us today.