California asbestos disclosure duties
In many cases, yes. California law requires certain building owners to disclose known asbestos to people who could be exposed, and this framework is stronger for older buildings where asbestos is more likely.
Disclosure duties generally apply when the owner knows the building contains asbestos, particularly for structures built before 1979. The idea is that people who live or work in the building should be warned so they can avoid disturbing hazardous material.
Disclosure does not mean the landlord must remove all asbestos — intact, sealed asbestos can sometimes be safely left in place and managed. But hiding known asbestos, or failing to warn tenants before work that could disturb it, can be a serious problem.
The specific requirements depend on the type and age of the building and what the owner knows. If you suspect there is asbestos your landlord has not disclosed — or if planned work might disturb it — a free, confidential review can help you understand what disclosure you were owed and what to do next.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.