What if the California tenant is not home when notice to quit is served?
California permits substituted service or posting plus mailing in this case. Substituted service: the server hands the notice to a competent adult at the residence (a roommate, adult family member, or housekeeper) and then mails a copy to the tenant by first-class mail. The mailed component starts the clock. Posting plus mailing: if no adult is at the residence, the server affixes the notice to the entry door (in plain sight, not under a mat) and mails a copy. The notice period (3 days for pay-or-quit under CCP 1161(2), 30 days for no-fault termination (60 for tenancies over 1 year) under AB 1482) starts on the day after both posting and mailing are complete. Only one of the methods is needed; you do not have to try in-person service first in most states, though some require a "diligent attempt" before resorting to posting.
Source: California substituted service rules
This is an informational answer based on California substituted service rules as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a California-licensed attorney.