Stay up to date on required filings, deadlines, and legal obligations for rental housing providers under local ordinances, California law, and federal regulations. This category includes Rent Board registration rules, annual fee notices, security deposit interest, new legislation, and compliance with laws like the ADA and Fair Housing Act.
A step-by-step guide to identifying lease breaches, writing compliant violation notices, and serving them correctly. Learn best practices and avoid common errors that can weaken your position under Berkeley and California law. Continue Reading
Each year, the Berkeley Rent Stabilization Board sets two key figures that affect nearly every rental housing provider in the city: the Annual General Adjustment (AGA)—Berkeley’s allowable rent increase—and the annual interest rate payable on tenants’ security deposits. Continue Reading
ChatGPT said: The Rent Board’s LIRA Committee has recommended a 1.0% Annual General Adjustment (AGA) for 2026. The full Board will vote on October 16, 2025, with increases effective January 1, 2026, for fully covered units. Unsure of your property’s status? Contact BPOA for guidance. Continue Reading
Security deposit interest is due every year in Berkeley — even at move-out. The Rent Board posts the annual rate each fall, and BPOA recommends paying it before December 31 to avoid penalties. Learn how to calculate, document, and stay compliant. Continue Reading
ChatGPT said: Survivors of domestic violence have the legal right to end a lease early without penalty. Learn how California law protects tenants seeking safety, what documentation is required, and how housing providers should handle these sensitive situations. Continue Reading
Don’t be misled by the “LA” ESA fee ruling. It was Louisiana, not Los Angeles. California law still prohibits charging ESA fees. Click to read more! Continue Reading
Can tenants claim a right to smoke marijuana in your units? Berkeley’s no-smoking ordinance and Fair Housing rules say otherwise. We’re busting the top myths so housing providers can enforce their policies with confidence. Continue Reading
E-bikes and scooters are ubiquitous, and California law stipulates that tenants have the right to keep them. Do your leases cover this? Learn what SB 712 requires and why BPOA’s Micromobility Devices Addendum should be part of every lease package - from the start!. Continue Reading
The Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program has recently been expanded! Learn about the funding options for Berkeley rental housing owners. Continue Reading
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
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
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
