Tenant neglected property - next steps

[Gary Dawson]

My tenant here in Thousand Oaks, CA stopped paying rent and also stopped watering so the grass and landscaping is damaged. They are moving out at the end of the month and I'm already using their security deposit to make up for unpaid rent. Going to have to take them to small claims. They gave me 30 day notice and I gave them a 3 day pay or quit for rent and late fees.

Any tips on how to proceed in:

1. Notifying tenant that I plan to pursue damages

2. Document damage and gather any other info I need to win the case

3. Present the case in small claims.

Any tips or pointers in any of these areas would be appreciated.