Nearly two years after AB 12 took effect, many housing providers still misunderstand California’s security deposit limits. This article explains deposit caps, “last month’s rent,” prepaid rent, pet deposits, small-owner exceptions, and Berkeley-specific considerations. Continue Reading
Content Library
News, insights, and education for Berkeley housing providers
The Content Library is your go-to feed for everything BPOA publishes—from blog articles and webinar playbacks to announcements and member newsletters. If we’ve written, posted, or recorded it, you’ll find it here—organized by date, not topic.
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Fraudulent rental applications are becoming harder to detect. This guide explains how to reduce risk using a consistent, compliant screening process—without stepping outside fair housing requirements. Continue Reading
Entry disputes can quickly spiral when owners or tenants misunderstand California access laws. Learn when lawful entry is permitted, how to properly notice repairs, and why calm, professional communication protects housing providers during difficult tenancies. Continue Reading
Inside this issue: Capitol & Council; Op-Ed: We Need to Solve Squatting; Berkeley Tenant Union BRSB Nominees; CalRHA Public Policy Update March 2026; "Why Rent Controls Don't Work (from 1977!); Some Tenants Get It; Berkeley Ranked Worst Housing Market for Buyers; The Nuts & Bolts; and more... Continue Reading
Raising rent on a rent-controlled unit? This guide shows you how to use Berkeley’s AGA notice correctly—covering eligibility, timing, rent ceiling calculations, and notice rules to help you avoid common errors. Continue Reading
From notice to deposit return, each step matters. Send required documents early, conduct inspections properly, document conditions, and return the deposit within 21 days of move-out. Includes Berkeley-specific requirements like deposit interest. Continue Reading
Registration fees are due Thursday, July 2, 2026. Miss the deadline, and the penalty doubles your cost. This guide covers who must register, what you owe, and how to avoid common mistakes. Continue Reading
What’s actually happening in Berkeley right now? In this April 28, 2026 Owners Forum, Sam Sorokin shares real-time insights on leasing trends, turnovers, and the risks housing providers should be watching in today’s market. Continue Reading
Attorney Alana Grice Conner breaks down the most common mistakes housing providers make—and how to avoid them. Learn how small decisions can lead to major consequences, and what steps you can take to protect yourself. Originally presented April 23, 2026. Continue Reading
A companion to our 4/23/26 playback video, Top Ten Mistakes..., this article highlights common missteps rental housing providers make—and how proper documentation and BPOA forms can help you avoid costly disputes. Continue Reading
Document lease violations clearly and effectively. This form helps you identify the specific lease term at issue, describe the conduct, and create a written record that supports enforcement under Berkeley’s Just Cause Ordinance. Continue Reading
A step-by-step guide for Berkeley rental housing providers Continue Reading