can landlord give tenant P.O.BOX.

Question

Hi All. i am in california, big fan for BiggerPockets for year. thanks those experts advise and help. i have quick question, i have rental house is going to rental out, but i don't want to give tenant my primary house address, can i give them my P.O.BOX address. i searching on web, some people said i have to give physical address not P.O. BOX by California Law. does anybody well know CA law, is it true?

thanks for your input and help.

Kyle J. · Answer

Many California landlords use only PO boxes. There is no requirement to provide your home address.

That being said, I think the confusion may be in the way the law reads, which states that you (as the owner) are required to disclose your "name, telephone number, and usual street address where personal service may be effected" in your rental agreement or lease. However, it also says that "If the address provided by the owner does not allow for personal delivery, then it shall be conclusively presumed that upon mailing of any rent or notice to the owner by the tenant to the name and address provided, the notice or rent is deemed receivable by the owner on the date posted, if the tenant can show proof of mailing to the name and address provided by the owner."

Of course, if you're still unsure, consult your attorney for further clarification. Or just use an alternate address (other than your home) where personal service is an option (like your work or business address, or a private mailbox from a company that will sign for letters).