1. What is Prorated Rent?

Prorated rent is a calculation that determines the amount of rent due when a tenant moves in or out partway through a rental period. In California, landlords are required to prorate rent when tenants don't occupy the unit for a full month.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard prorated rent formula:

Where:

• Monthly Rent — The full monthly rental amount
• Days in Month — Total days in the current month (28-31)
• Days Occupied — Number of days the tenant will occupy the unit

Explanation: This calculation divides the monthly rent by the number of days in the month to get a daily rate, then multiplies by the number of days the tenant will actually occupy the unit.

3. California Prorated Rent Laws

Details: California Civil Code requires landlords to prorate rent when tenants move in or out mid-month. The calculation must be based on the actual number of days in that month.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the full monthly rent amount, select the correct number of days in the month (28, 29, 30, or 31), and enter the number of days the tenant will occupy the unit.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is prorated rent required by law in California?
A: Yes, California law requires landlords to prorate rent when tenants don't occupy the unit for a full month.

Q2: What if the lease specifies a different calculation method?
A: California law supersedes lease terms regarding prorated rent calculations.

Q3: How are partial days handled?
A: Typically, any day the tenant has access counts as a full day, even if they move in late or out early.

Q4: Does this apply to all rental properties?
A: Yes, this applies to residential rentals including apartments, houses, and rooms.

Q5: What about months with 28 or 29 days?
A: The calculation must use the actual number of days in that specific month.