Tenant Protection Program (TPP)

The Tenant Protection Program (TPP) applies to many residential rental properties within the City of Sacramento and is one of the most important local ordinances.

Key Requirements:

• Just Cause Eviction Protections Landlords must have a valid “just cause” reason to terminate a tenancy after a tenant has occupied the unit for 12 months.
• Relocation Assistance Required for certain no-fault evictions (such as owner move-in or substantial rehab).
• Notice Requirements Specific disclosures and notices must be provided to tenants regarding their rights under the TPP.
• Applicability Applies to many multi-family and some single-family rental properties, with exemptions.

Rental Housing Inspection Program (RHIP)

Sacramento requires most rental properties to participate in the Rental Housing Inspection Program (RHIP).

Key Requirements:

• Mandatory Registration Rental properties must be registered with the City.
• Periodic Inspections Units are subject to inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• Fees Annual per-unit fees are required.
• Violation Compliance Property owners must correct any cited violations within required timeframes.

Local Rent Control & Rent Increase Rules

While Sacramento follows California’s AB 1482 (statewide rent cap law), local enforcement and compliance expectations are critical.

Key Points:

• Annual Rent Increase Limits Generally capped at 5% + CPI (with a maximum cap set by state law).
• Notice Requirements Written notice must be provided for all rent increases.
• Local Awareness Even when governed by state law, Sacramento enforces compliance at the local level.

Just Cause Eviction (Local + State Overlap)

Sacramento incorporates and enforces just cause eviction protections through both local ordinances and state law.

Common Just Cause Categories:

• At-Fault Causes Non-payment of rent, lease violations, nuisance or illegal activity
• No-Fault Causes Owner move-in, substantial rehabilitation, withdrawal from rental market

Additional Requirements:

• Proper documentation
• Specific notice language
• Potential relocation assistance

Required Local Disclosures & Notices

Sacramento landlords must provide certain disclosures in addition to California-required notices.

Common Requirements:

• Tenant Protection Program Notice
• Rent increase notices
• Entry notices (24-hour notice)
• Security deposit itemization upon move-out
• Lead-based paint disclosure (if applicable)

Failure to provide required notices can impact enforcement rights, including evictions.

Security Deposit Rules (Local Considerations)

While primarily governed by California law, Sacramento enforces strict compliance.

Key Points:

• Itemized Statement Required Must be provided within 21 days after move-out.
• Documentation Expectations Receipts and supporting documentation may be required.
• Deductions Must Be Justified Only allowable for unpaid rent, cleaning, and damages beyond normal wear and tear.

Code Enforcement & Habitability Standards

Sacramento actively enforces property maintenance and habitability standards.

Landlord Responsibilities:

• Maintain safe, habitable units
• Address tenant complaints promptly
• Comply with building, health, and safety codes

Enforcement:

• City inspections
• Notices of violation
• Potential fines or penalties