CA Real Estate Property Management 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In California, what is the maximum security deposit a landlord may collect from a residential tenant for an unfurnished unit?
- One month's rent
- Two months' rent (Correct answer)
- Three months' rent
- Four months' rent
Correct answer: Two months' rent
California law limits security deposits for unfurnished residential units to a maximum of two months' rent.
Question 2: Which document authorizes a property manager to act on behalf of the property owner?
- Lease agreement
- Property management agreement (Correct answer)
- Rental application
- Estoppel certificate
Correct answer: Property management agreement
The property management agreement is the contract that grants the manager authority to act as the owner's agent.
Question 3: Under California law, how much notice must a landlord typically give a month-to-month tenant before increasing rent?
- 15 days
- 30 days (Correct answer)
- 60 days
- 90 days
Correct answer: 30 days
California requires at least 30 days' written notice for rent increases of 10% or less, and 90 days for increases over 10%.
Question 4: What is the primary purpose of an estoppel certificate in property management?
- To terminate a lease early
- To confirm the terms of a lease as stated by the tenant (Correct answer)
- To authorize rent increases
- To transfer ownership of the property
Correct answer: To confirm the terms of a lease as stated by the tenant
An estoppel certificate is signed by a tenant confirming lease terms, rent amount, and any disputes — often required during a property sale.
Question 5: In California, within how many days must a landlord return a tenant's security deposit after they vacate?
- 10 days
- 14 days
- 21 days (Correct answer)
- 30 days
Correct answer: 21 days
California law requires landlords to return security deposits, along with an itemized statement of deductions, within 21 days of the tenant vacating.
Question 6: Which of the following is a property manager's responsibility under California law?
- Guaranteeing rental income to the owner
- Maintaining the property in a habitable condition (Correct answer)
- Selecting only tenants approved by the HOA
- Setting rents above fair market value
Correct answer: Maintaining the property in a habitable condition
California's implied warranty of habitability requires landlords and their agents to maintain properties in safe, livable condition.
CA Real Estate Property Management 1
In California, what is the maximum security deposit a landlord may collect from a residential tenant for an unfurnished unit?