Understand your responsibilities under state and federal Fair Housing laws. This section covers emotional support animals, service animals, screening practices, reasonable accommodations, advertising guidelines, and more. Protect yourself from discrimination claims by learning where good intentions may still lead to legal risk.
No, HUD did not eliminate emotional support animals. This article explains HUD's May 2026 memorandum, separates fact from fiction, and clarifies what Berkeley housing providers need to know before changing policies or practices. Continue Reading
You followed your screening criteria, denied the application, and thought the matter was over — until the applicant accused you of discrimination. This article explores what investigators look for next, why consistency matters, and how documentation can become your strongest defense. Continue Reading
What you don’t know about fair housing can hurt you. Attorney Steve Williams covers the rules, risks, and real-world pitfalls that trip up housing providers—and how to stay compliant at every step of the leasing process. Originally aired on 04/09/2026 Continue Reading
It’s easy to rely on instinct during showings—but deciding someone isn’t “a good fit” before they even apply creates risk. This article explains why early, subjective decisions are hard to defend and how to keep your screening process consistent and 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
You can’t rely on a no-pets clause to deny an ESA or service animal. Requests can be made at any time. This guide explains what the law requires, what documentation is valid, and how to respond correctly. Continue Reading
Use this guide before posting your rental listing! Continue Reading
What’s changing in 2026? This webinar, hosted by CalRHA, covers key landlord-tenant law updates rental housing providers need to know heading into the new year. Continue Reading
In 2008, landlords could ask about criminal history—and often did. Today, Berkeley’s Fair Chance Housing Ordinance makes that illegal. This Then & Now column compares what landlords could do then versus what’s allowed now. Continue Reading
When a tenant makes a request tied to a disability, do you know whether it’s a reasonable accommodation (a change in rules or services) or a reasonable modification (a physical change to the property)? 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
