Content Library

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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Free Resources Policy & Regulatory

Rent Is Due on the 1st—So What Does the Grace Period Actually Mean?
Rent Is Due on the 1st—So What Does the Grace Period Actually Mean?

Rent is due on the 1st, but many tenants pay during the grace period. Learn what that actually means, how to handle late-but-timely payments, and how to avoid turning routine rent collection into unnecessary conflict. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted04/1/2026


It’s Not Your Trash—But It’s Still Your Responsibility
It’s Not Your Trash—But It’s Still Your Responsibility

Illegal dumping on sidewalks and streets can trigger citations, even if you didn’t cause it. In Berkeley, property owners are responsible for removing debris adjacent to their property, regardless of who left it there. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted04/1/2026


Don’t Leave It on the Sidewalk: A Guide to Proper Disposal in Berkeley
Don’t Leave It on the Sidewalk: A Guide to Proper Disposal in Berkeley

Leaving items on the sidewalk is illegal in Berkeley and can lead to fines. This guide explains proper disposal and how residents and owners can prevent illegal dumping. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted04/1/2026


BPOA Newsletter: April 2026 Issue
BPOA Newsletter: April 2026 Issue

Inside this issue: Capitol & Council; A $285,000 Ambulance?; Fair-Housing Testers Aren't so Fair; CalRHA Public Policy Update; City of Berkeley Fees for Rental Housing Providers; Cal Move-Out 2026; UCB's Tallest Dorm Ever, and more... Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted04/1/2026


Tenant Notice to Vacate by Email: Valid—or a Risk?
Tenant Notice to Vacate by Email: Valid—or a Risk?

Can a tenant give notice to vacate by email? In California, the answer depends on your lease and how the notice is delivered. Learn what the law allows, where the risks are, and best practices for Berkeley housing providers. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted03/31/2026


Modernizing Your Leasing Process: Removing Barriers That Prevent Qualified Applicants
Modernizing Your Leasing Process: Removing Barriers That Prevent Qualified Applicants

If inquiries aren’t turning into applications, something is getting in the way. Learn how to identify and remove common leasing barriers so qualified applicants can move forward. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted03/30/2026


Stop Calling It a Fee: What Actually Counts as a Security Deposit in California
Stop Calling It a Fee: What Actually Counts as a Security Deposit in California

Many upfront charges are legally treated as security deposits, regardless of how they’re labeled. This guide explains what constitutes a deposit under California law and how to structure charges to remain compliant. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted03/27/2026


How to Build a Tenant File That Holds Up When It Matters
How to Build a Tenant File That Holds Up When It Matters

From application to move-out, this guide outlines the records every housing provider should maintain and how to build a complete, defensible tenancy file over time. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted03/26/2026


VIDEO: How to Prevent Losing Everything in a Lawsuit
VIDEO: How to Prevent Losing Everything in a Lawsuit

Watch the playback of BPOA’s March 19, 2026, presentation, “How to Prevent Losing Everything in a Lawsuit,” and learn practical steps to reduce risk, strengthen protections, and safeguard your assets. Continue Reading

Postedby Harry Barth, Esq.
Date posted03/26/2026


Cal Move-Out 2026: A 30-Day Planning Guide for Owners and Student Residents
Cal Move-Out 2026: A 30-Day Planning Guide for Owners and Student Residents

Each spring, Berkeley sees a surge in student move-outs—and with it, illegal dumping, fines, and overflowing trash areas. This guide helps owners and residents plan ahead and properly handle everything from furniture to food waste. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted03/23/2026


A Berkeley Landlord’s Guide to Screening Applicants with Housing Vouchers
A Berkeley Landlord’s Guide to Screening Applicants with Housing Vouchers

How should Berkeley housing providers screen applicants who use housing vouchers? This guide explains voucher verification, income-to-rent calculations, and how to evaluate financial qualification under California law, which prohibits the use of credit scores. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted03/12/2026


VIDEO: The Owners Forum - Leasing & Renewals
VIDEO: The Owners Forum - Leasing & Renewals

In this March 2026 session of the Owners Forum, BPOA Vice President and Berkeley property manager Sam Sorokin shares his perspectives on leasing strategy, structuring lease terms, and managing risk in Berkeley’s regulatory environment, followed by questions and discussion. Continue Reading

Date posted03/5/2026