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Individual claims, today

For landlords and property managers

Small claims works the same way whether you're a tenant or the one who's owed rent, but if you file often, there's one rule worth knowing before you start.

What SmallClaimsHQ does today

Right now, SmallClaimsHQ works the same way for a landlord chasing unpaid rent or damage beyond a deposit as it does for anyone else: tell us what happened, we check the amount and venue, draft a demand letter, and, if it's not resolved, prepare and file the SC-100, arrange legal service, and track every deadline through the hearing.

One rule worth knowing first

California limits any plaintiff to two small claims cases over $2,500 in a calendar year (Code Civ. Proc. § 116.231). It doesn't cap smaller claims, but if you file often and for larger amounts, this is worth checking before you count on small claims as a routine collections tool. Your free county Small Claims Advisor can walk through how it applies to your situation.

What we're building next

A dedicated tool for property managers and small businesses who file repeat claims, built around that same frequency rule rather than around it, isn't live yet. If that's your situation, tell us and we'll reach out when it is.

Not sure your claim qualifies yet?

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Manage recurring claims and want to hear when the repeat-filer product ships? Email us, no signup form yet, just a real inbox.
Frequently asked

Does SmallClaimsHQ work differently for landlords than for tenants?

No, the same process applies to a landlord chasing unpaid rent or damage as to anyone else: claim check and demand letter today, filing and service once that service launches.

Is there a limit on how many small claims cases a landlord can file?

Yes. California limits any plaintiff to two small claims cases over $2,500 in a calendar year (Code Civ. Proc. § 116.231). It doesn't cap smaller claims.

Is there a tool for landlords who file repeat claims?

Not yet. A dedicated tool for property managers and small businesses filing repeat claims is in development.