Is it legal to work in exchange for rent?
I worked on a ranch for almost four years cleaning stalls, fixing fences, landscaping + much more. There was no written contract, just an agreement that I would have housing and basic utilities paid in exchange for this work. Is this legal? After almost four years they got mad at me one day and gave me 7 days to pack my stuff and get out. (believe me they did me a favor) This work was 7 days a week and sometimes more than 6 hours a day!!
working for room and board
Eviction of Employee / Tenant
I haven't found any specific California law on the subject, although my assumption is that some is available. Generally speaking, you can work in return for receiving a free or discounted rental unit. California's general landlord tenant laws would appear to apply to eviction, although not to the termination of the employment which offsets the rent. It does not appear that you received proper notice under the statute.