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.
Rent is due on the 1st, but many tenants pay during the grace period. Learn what that actually means, how to handle late-but-timely payments, and how to avoid turning routine rent collection into unnecessary conflict. Continue Reading
Illegal dumping on sidewalks and streets can trigger citations, even if you didn’t cause it. In Berkeley, property owners are responsible for removing debris adjacent to their property, regardless of who left it there. Continue Reading
Many upfront charges are legally treated as security deposits, regardless of how they’re labeled. This guide explains what constitutes a deposit under California law and how to structure charges to remain compliant. Continue Reading
Can a tenant legally operate a daycare from your rental property? California law gives licensed family daycare homes special protections that can override standard “no business use” lease clauses and some HOA restrictions. Learn what housing providers can — and cannot — prohibit. Continue Reading
How should Berkeley housing providers screen applicants who use housing vouchers? This guide explains voucher verification, income-to-rent calculations, and how to evaluate financial qualification under California law, which prohibits the use of credit scores. Continue Reading
In this March 2026 session of the Owners Forum, BPOA Vice President and Berkeley property manager Sam Sorokin shares his perspectives on leasing strategy, structuring lease terms, and managing risk in Berkeley’s regulatory environment, followed by questions and discussion. Continue Reading
After the March 2026 Owners Forum with Sam Sorokin, many members asked about lease renewals, rent increases, and concessions. In Berkeley, the rules differ depending on whether a unit is fully covered, partially covered, or exempt from rent control, which affects common leasing strategies. Continue Reading
Received a Form 571-R from Alameda County? Learn what the Apartment House Property Statement is, what must be reported, key deadlines, and how to prepare for easier filing in future years. Continue Reading
Micromobility devices like e-bikes and scooters are increasingly common in rental housing. This guide outlines registration requirements, safe charging practices, and shared responsibilities to help owners and residents reduce fire risk and maintain safe buildings. Continue Reading
Practical guidance for handling smoking and odor complaints in Berkeley smoke-free rental housing, including ordinance requirements, documentation strategies, and what owners can realistically expect from enforcement. Continue Reading
Berkeley's Rental Housing Safety Program team, Angel Sindayen, Sloan Fiddler, and Andre Kidd, break down the inspection process, including the difference between proactive and complaint-based inspections, explain the RHSP Self-Certification Checklist (SCC), how annual fees are determined, and more! Continue Reading
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are required by California law in rental housing. This guide explains installation requirements, clarifies owner and resident responsibilities, and outlines why alarms must remain installed, operable, and free from tampering at all times. Continue Reading
