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

2025 Security Deposit Guidance for California Landlords
2025 Security Deposit Guidance for California Landlords

New year, same questions. California’s security deposit law changed in 2024; are you in compliance? This 2025 guide explains what you can (and can’t) collect, how to handle “last month’s rent,” and how Berkeley’s local rules layer on top. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted06/1/2025


June 2025 Issue
June 2025 Issue

In this issue: Editorial by Dan Lieberman, Renting in a Softer Market, Part 1; Coalition Corner; Rent Control Creates Privileged Tenants; CalRHA Public Policy Updates; The Tenant Screening Trap; The Nuts & Bolts; CA City Wants an Anti-Housing Insurgency; No Vacant Unit Goes Untaxed; Events Calendar Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted06/1/2025


BPOA for Realtors: Compliance, Confidence, and Connections
BPOA for Realtors: Compliance, Confidence, and Connections

Leasing or managing rentals in Berkeley? BPOA’s Realtor Membership gives you access to city-specific tools, updates, and support so you can navigate local rules, assist your clients confidently, and stay compliant in one of California’s most complex rental markets. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted06/1/2025


You Can’t Just Ask Them to Leave: An Owner's Guide to Taking Possession of a Rented Unit
You Can’t Just Ask Them to Leave: An Owner's Guide to Taking Possession of a Rented Unit

Planning to move into your Berkeley rental? There are only a handful of legal ways to regain possession from a tenant, and each comes with strict rules. Before you act, read our guide to avoid costly mistakes. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted06/1/2025


It’s That Time Again: RHSP Inspections Due by July 1st
It’s That Time Again: RHSP Inspections Due by July 1st

Berkeley rental units, including single rooms, must be inspected annually using the RHSP Checklist. Learn what’s required, how to give proper notice, and why it’s more than just a legal formality. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted06/1/2025


CalRHA Digital Magazine: June 2025
CalRHA Digital Magazine: June 2025

Governor Newsom Unveils Proposal to Cut Red Tape and Fast-Track Housing & Development; Press Statements: SB 436 and 522; Notice to CA Rental Housing Providers: Two Initiatives to Strengthen Prop 13 Submitted; Building Housing in Walkable Neighborhoods: Are US Cities & States Making Progress? & more Continue Reading

Postedby Therese Twomey
Date posted06/1/2025


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