New laws and Berkeley’s RSO set strict rules for deposits, pricing, and lease terms. Learn how to advertise consistently, stay within deposit caps, and avoid pitfalls when negotiating rent with prospective tenants. 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.
Looking for forms? Click here to access the Rental Housing Forms Library!
The Rent Board uses a set formula to calculate the Annual General Adjustment. Learn how it works and what it means for the 2026 increase (0.97%). Continue Reading
Not all reasons for denying a tenant are legal. Learn which characteristics are always protected, which criteria you can safely use, and why written standards matter in Berkeley’s strict rental market. Continue Reading
Learn how to attract more qualified applicants—faster. This hands-on session walks you through Intellirent’s marketing tools to help your listings stand out across dozens of platforms. Whether you're new to online leasing or ready to level up your strategy, this is where to start. Continue Reading
Berkeley’s composting and recycling rules apply to all rentals, but containers vary by property type. Learn what goes where, how to avoid contamination notices, and where to get free tenant handouts and bin posters in BPOA’s Rental Housing Forms Library. Continue Reading
New form for fully exempt units: The AB 1482 Exemption Disclosure can help document your unit’s exempt status and protect against future changes in the law. Use with care. Continue Reading
Inside this issue: Housing Provider Legal Q&A; CalRHA Public Policy Update; Water-Saving Landscaping; NAA Rent Control Report 2025; Berkeley Council OKs Zoning Overhaul; Landlording with Mark and more! Continue Reading
Think your tenant caused the bedbugs? You still have to treat first. California law requires prompt action to maintain habitability, regardless of who’s at fault. This article explains why waiting can backfire and how to handle recovery of costs the right way. Continue Reading
Need some help navigating the flipbook toolbar? This article breaks it down! It's also available in a downloadable PDF so you can print a cheat sheet to have on hand. Continue Reading
In this month's issue: Local Taxpayer Protection Act; AB 2801's Requirements; Behind the High Cost of Rent; PPIC Statewide Survey: Californians and the Environment; Who is Served by the Housing Choice Voucher Program? A State- and County-Level Look Continue Reading
Learn how new state laws impact security deposits and rental applications. This webinar covers key legal changes, compliance tips, and best practices to protect your business and plan your next tenancy with confidence. Presented by BPOA Executive Director, Krista Gulbransen Continue Reading
When tenants leave stuff behind, you can't just toss it. California law outlines strict steps for handling abandoned property. Miss one, and you could be on the hook. This guide explains what to do, when to do it, and how to stay protected. Continue Reading