1. Rent Control & Just Cause (AB 1482)

California’s Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482) applies to many residential properties and includes:

Rent Increase Limits

• Annual rent increases are capped at 5% + local CPI, up to a maximum of 10% per year
• Applies on a rolling 12-month basis

Just Cause Eviction Requirements

After 12 months of tenancy, landlords must have a valid reason to terminate tenancy:

• At-fault reasons (e.g., nonpayment, lease violations)
• No-fault reasons (e.g., owner move-in, substantial remodel)

Relocation Assistance

• Required for most no-fault evictions (typically equal to 1 month’s rent)

Exemptions

Some properties are exempt, including:

• Single-family homes (if properly disclosed)
• New construction (generally within 15 years)
• Owner-occupied duplexes

2. Security Deposit Laws (Updated 2024–2025)

Recent changes have significantly impacted how security deposits are handled.

Key Rules

• Security deposits are now generally limited to 1 month’s rent (with limited exceptions)
• Must be returned within 21 days after move-out
• Must include an itemized statement of deductions

Allowable Deductions

• Unpaid rent
• Cleaning to restore unit to original condition
• Repairs beyond normal wear and tear

Best Practice

• Conduct pre-move-out inspections
• Document property condition with photos

3. Rent Increase Notice Requirements

Even when increases are allowed, proper notice is required:

• 30-day notice → increases of 10% or less
• 90-day notice → increases over 10%

Notices must be:

• In writing
• Properly served
• Clearly state the new rent and effective date

4. Eviction & Notice Requirements

California eviction laws are highly regulated and strictly enforced.

Common Notices

• 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit
• 3-Day Notice to Perform Covenant or Quit
• 30-Day / 60-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy

Important Considerations

• Notices must be legally compliant in wording and delivery
• Errors can delay eviction timelines significantly
• Court processes vary by county but are generally tenant-protective

5. Fair Housing Laws

Landlords must comply with both federal and California fair housing laws.

Protected Classes Include

• Race, color, religion
• Sex, gender identity, sexual orientation
• Disability
• Familial status
• Source of income (California-specific protection)

Key Requirements

• Equal screening criteria
• Reasonable accommodations for disabilities
• Consistent application policies

6. Habitability Requirements

California law requires rental properties to be safe and livable.

Landlord Responsibilities

• Weatherproofing and waterproofing
• Functional plumbing, heating, and electrical systems
• Clean and sanitary conditions
• Pest control (in most cases)

Failure to maintain habitability can result in:

• Rent withholding
• Repairs and deductions by tenants
• Legal liability

7. Required Disclosures

Landlords must provide specific disclosures at the start of tenancy.

Common Disclosures Include

• Lead-based paint (for pre-1978 properties)
• Bed bug information
• Mold disclosure (if applicable)
• AB 1482 exemption notice (if applicable)
• Flood hazard disclosure (if applicable)

Failure to provide required disclosures can impact enforceability of lease terms.

8. Entry to Rental Property

Landlords have the right to enter, but only under specific conditions.

Notice Requirement

• Typically 24-hour written notice

Valid Reasons for Entry

• Repairs or maintenance
• Showings to prospective tenants or buyers
• Inspections
• Emergencies (no notice required)

9. Lease Agreements & Documentation

A strong lease agreement is critical for compliance.

Should Include

• Rent amount and due date
• Deposit terms
• Maintenance responsibilities
• House rules and policies
• Required legal disclosures

Recommendation

Use California-compliant lease agreements and regularly update them to reflect new laws.

Why Compliance Matters

California rental laws are frequently updated and heavily enforced. Non-compliance can result in:

• Financial penalties
• Delayed evictions
• Legal disputes
• Increased liability

Staying informed—and using compliant forms and procedures—is essential for protecting your investment.