Since this is the 13th I don't know how far the situation has gone but I can offer some ideas for reference. Start with giving him a "Notice to Comply" It's a 10 day notice that defines what condition must be changed or else the tenant has to move. Be specific. This gives the tenant a chance. If they have broken the lease you can notify them in writing and state the reasons. You can issue a 30 day notice to move. However, if the rent is unpaid after 7 days you can issue a 3 day notice, but it's still not a legal eviction. (see below) A lot of landlords have a clause in the lease that charge late fees. If there is illegal activity call the police. An arrest gives you legal backing for an eviction if it goes that far. It also justifies a 3 day notice, but again is not a legal eviction. If a tenant is annoying and disturbing the neighbors it's called "creating a nuisance". Ask them to call the police so it's on record. They probably won't want to do that so you will probably have to write down the dates and descriptions of their complaints. They may end up as your witnesses in court, but don't tell them that. I don't know what the laws are specifically in CA so you should look up your states laws.You can find them on the internet or your local library. In a lot of places an eviction isn't legal unless it's a court order. It's a legal process, meaning you have to go to court. Some tenants know this and take advantage of it. If there are damages and unpaid rent, you can sue. If they don't pay you can get a judgment against them and it goes on their credit rating. This shows up when they go to rent another place. A lot of landlords check credit ratings nowadays, along with past rental history. I have managed apartments and have seen all kinds, both good and bad. I have also dealt with some really nasty landlords in my past. If someone wants to be a bad tenant they will just make it harder to find a place to rent. .