Not just apartment buildings
Yes. California's habitability protections apply to most residential rentals — houses, apartments, condos, duplexes, and many mobile-home situations — not just traditional apartment buildings. The implied warranty of habitability covers residential tenancies broadly.
That means renting a single-family house comes with the same basic right to a safe, livable home as renting an apartment: working heat and water, safe electrical, a sound structure, and freedom from serious pests, among other things. Mobile-home residents have protections too, though some come from a separate law called the Mobilehome Residency Law, which has its own rules for parks and space rentals.
A few narrow arrangements can differ, such as certain owner-occupied situations or short-term stays. If you are not sure whether your particular rental is covered, that is a fair question to ask before you act. A quick, free conversation can confirm whether your home falls under California's habitability protections and what your options are.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.