I am currently in a month-to-month (no lease) with my landlord in
Santa Barbara CA.  On June 7, she sent me an email requesting that I
leave by July 7.  The new place I am moving to is not available until
July 11.  I have looked into the costs associated with staying at even
a cheap motel and storing my belongings on a moving truck in the
meantime and cannot afford to do this.  Instead, I am considering
over-staying the 30 day notice just until mid-day July 11.

My question is two-fold.  First, does an email satisfy the "written
notice" requirement under California state law?

Second, if I do choose to over stay the additional days, what are the
possible ramifications?  If she was determined I know she could go to
court on Monday and begin eviction proceedings and in that case I
would have 5 days to respond.  If she does initiate proceedings, but I
vacate in the mean time (and state that in my response) will the
proceedings still appear on my credit report as an eviction?  (This is
my main concern!)

Basically, I'd like to know what my options are as far as remaining in
the property for the additional time without any adverse affects on my
credit report or having to pay any legal fees.

Thanks!

(Must be answered quickly, before 7/7 to qualify as answered!)