California Refrigerator Request Addendum

California Lease Requirements: Updated Warranty of Habitability & Landlord Responsibilities

As of January 1, 2026, California Civil Code § 1941.1 was updated to outline and expand the Landlord’s duty to provide a habitable rental unit. Landlords must ensure:

• Waterproofing and weather protection
• Plumbing and gas systems that comply with laws and are in good working order
• Water supply that provides hot and cold water
• Heating systems that comply with applicable laws and are in good working order
• Electrical lighting maintained in good working order
• Clean, sanitary premises with no debris, filth, rodents, or vermin
• An adequate number of trash receptacles
• Floors, stairways, and railings maintained in good condition
• A stove and refrigerator in good working order

If a Tenant CHOOSES to use their own refrigerator, the Lease Agreement must include specific language noting:

• The Landlord is required by state law to provide a refrigerator in good working order.
• The Tenant has asked to bring their own refrigerator.
• The Landlord is not responsible for the maintenance of a refrigerator provided by the Tenant.
• The Tenant may, with 30 days' written notice, inform the Landlord that the Tenant no longer wishes to keep their own refrigerator in the Property, and the Landlord must install a refrigerator in good working order.

If your California Tenants want to have their own refrigerator in the unit, use this Refrigerator Addendum to comply with California law.