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. 

BPOA News & Commentary Free Resources Insurance Only in Berkeley Wealth & Legacy

How to Fill Out the Notice of Change in Terms for Non-Rent-Controlled Units
How to Fill Out the Notice of Change in Terms for Non-Rent-Controlled Units

Step-by-step guidance for using BPOA’s Change in Terms form to raise rent on certain non–rent-controlled units, like single-family homes, condos, and new construction. Covers notice periods, lawful use, and limits under Berkeley’s Just Cause protections. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/30/2025


BPOA's Application Process Forms: When and How to Use Them
BPOA's Application Process Forms: When and How to Use Them

This article walks you through BPOA’s key forms used during the rental application process, what each one is for, when to use it, and how to stay compliant with California and federal law. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/30/2025


When Tenants Give Notice: What Counts as Legal Notice to Vacate?
When Tenants Give Notice: What Counts as Legal Notice to Vacate?

This article explains what qualifies as legal notice to vacate, when email might count, and how landlords can respond if tenants attempt to give notice outside the lease’s required format. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/30/2025


Wear and Tear vs. Damage: What Landlords Can Deduct from the Security Deposit
Wear and Tear vs. Damage: What Landlords Can Deduct from the Security Deposit

Cleaning deductions must be reasonable. Landlords may charge if the unit was returned excessively dirty—but not just because it isn’t professionally cleaned. This section explains when cleaning charges are justified and how to document them properly. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/29/2025


Mandatory Earthquake Retrofits in Berkeley: What Rental Housing Providers Need to Know
Mandatory Earthquake Retrofits in Berkeley: What Rental Housing Providers Need to Know

The City of Berkeley requires seismic retrofits for certain buildings that are especially vulnerable during an earthquake. If you own a rental property that falls into one of the categories below, you may be subject to mandatory retrofit requirements. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/29/2025


Berkeley's Tenant Buyout Ordinance
Berkeley's Tenant Buyout Ordinance

Thinking about offering your tenant money to move out? Berkeley has strict rules governing buyout agreements, and even small missteps can make the deal unenforceable. Learn what disclosures are required, how long tenants have to change their minds, and why legal guidance is essential. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/29/2025


Stick to the Script: Why You Should Never Ask for More Than What's on the BPOA Rental Application
Stick to the Script: Why You Should Never Ask for More Than What's on the BPOA Rental Application

Think asking for a selfie with ID or a link to Instagram helps prevent fraud? Think again. Learn why sticking to BPOA’s standard rental application is not just smart, it’s legally safer. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted05/27/2025


Hoarding in Rental Units: How to Address Habitability Without Violating Tenant Rights
Hoarding in Rental Units: How to Address Habitability Without Violating Tenant Rights

How to handle hoarding while meeting habitability and legal duties Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted05/23/2025


Detecting Deception in Rental Applications: How to Spot Red Flags Before It's Too Late
Detecting Deception in Rental Applications: How to Spot Red Flags Before It's Too Late

In an era of fake pay stubs, spoofed references, and AI-generated documents, screening applicants is more complicated than ever. Learn how to identify common red flags and protect yourself from costly mistakes. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted05/23/2025


Charging Screening Fees in 2025: California's New Rules Under Civil Code 1950.6
Charging Screening Fees in 2025: California's New Rules Under Civil Code 1950.6

New rules under AB 2493 require California landlords to follow one of two approved screening processes—and issue refunds, receipts, and disclosures accordingly. Learn how to stay compliant under Civil Code § 1950.6. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted05/23/2025


Pre-Move-Out Inspections & Photo Documentation — Protecting Your Right to Deductions
Pre-Move-Out Inspections & Photo Documentation — Protecting Your Right to Deductions

Pre-move-out inspections are not just a formality—they’re the first step in protecting your right to lawful deductions. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/21/2025


Your New Tenant Is Official—Now What? A Step-by-Step Move-In Guide
Your New Tenant Is Official—Now What? A Step-by-Step Move-In Guide

Signed lease in hand? Don’t hand over the keys just yet. Here’s what every landlord should do between lease signing and move-in day to ensure a smooth start and avoid costly mistakes! Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/20/2025