Free Resources

San Francisco’s Empty Homes Tax is now before the Court of Appeal — and the ruling could reshape how Berkeley enforces its own vacant unit tax. Learn why BPOA filed an amicus brief and what’s at stake for property owners. Continue Reading

A complete copy of BPOA’s 2025 amicus curiae brief filed in the Court of Appeal in the San Francisco Empty Homes Tax case. Provided here in full for member reference. 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

The Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program has recently been expanded! Learn about the funding options for Berkeley rental housing owners. 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

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

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

Leasing or managing rentals in Berkeley? BPOA’s Realtor Membership gives you access to city-specific tools, updates, and support so you can navigate local rules, assist your clients confidently, and stay compliant in one of California’s most complex rental markets. Continue Reading

Owning rental property in Berkeley can be rewarding, but it’s never simple. With one of the most complex rent control ordinances in the country and a city government that frequently updates local laws and fees, small mistakes can have big consequences. Continue Reading

A guide by the Rent Board on Berkeley's Rent Stabilization Program Continue Reading

The Costa-Hawkins Act of 1996 is a critical law governing a local jurisdiction's power to enact rent control on certain rental units. It was originally written to exempt newly constructed units in an effort to encourage new construction and exempted any unit built after the inception of... Continue Reading

What housing providers need to know about SB 712, the charging and storage of tenants' micromobility devices Continue Reading