Compliance & Regulations

AB 2801, which modified CA's security deposit law, is now fully in effect. Landlords must take move-in photos for all new tenancies and include move-out photos and "after repair" photo documentation with any deposit deductions. This guide explains what to photograph and how to stay compliant. Continue Reading

Confused by the Rent Board’s rent ceiling notice? Learn how to verify your unit’s lawful rent ceiling, fix common errors, and calculate adjustments using the AGA chart, especially before tenant notices go out in November. Continue Reading

Berkeley’s Empty Homes Tax now applies to any unit left vacant for more than 182 days, not just rentals. Even if your unit is listed for rent or inherited through probate, you may owe thousands in annual penalties. Learn who’s affected, what counts as “vacant,” and how to avoid the tax. Continue Reading

Explore the key elements of rental housing compliance in Berkeley, including the rent stabilization ordinance and its laws. Learn about the registration process, rent ceilings, and eviction protections. Discover special exemptions like the golden duplex rule and the Costa Hawkins Rental Act and more Continue Reading

A beginners guide for Berkeley Rental Housing Providers Continue Reading

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

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

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

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

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

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

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