Forcing a tenant to vacate in California.

[D T.]

After much legal advice, I understand I can't force a tenant in CA to leave (no-fault evictions are illegal here) unless they are arrested on the property, stop paying rent, or if you have a family member move in. This tenant is highly problematic, to say the least - calling the city and complaining about all and sundry. I'm really considering having a "family member move in." But, one has to be very careful and actually have a member move in or you can get in trouble if anyone checks. So my question is, how long does that member have to be there until you can resort back to a regular tenant?

All thoughts appreciated!!!!

[Matt Devincenzo]

You are however allowed to raise rent the maximum allowed, which is the first thing I'd do. Then consider if there are actual real upgrades that would require them to vacate. If so that is one way to get them out. And finally (I personally despise this option) you offer cash for keys. If you keep raising rent the max allowed it may take some time but eventually you should end up high enough that they move.