It can only include the rent owed, or the courts won't accept it.And I think people misunderstand CA laws.  

@Sue Kelly I think there was a misunderstanding in the way the scenarios I put out there were interpreted, but even then- I understand what you're saying completely.  

I'm guessing there was a misunderstanding or some other issue.  

Even if its just a big misunderstanding, you will solidify your seriousness in the minds of the tenants who see the rent demand and they will be less likely to try to push you around in the future.

I think landlords often misunderstand cooperation for enjoyment of their company.  

Not egregious enough to evict, but enough not to lose money on them.Since we are on the topic of misinterpretation, I think you misunderstand the residential landlord tenant lease provided by the AG's office.

Tell him that in exchange he keeps your security deposit and you walk way under good terms with all this just being a misunderstanding.

You can run afoul of the Fair Housing laws even with the best of intentions, or someone could misunderstand something you said, or someone might just outright lie about their interaction with you.

Both are dysfunctional arrangements, but what people misunderstand is that the enabler is just as guilty.

Always keep it professional, like Al suggested, everything in writing so there are no misunderstandings.