These publicly available materials offer a glimpse into the kind of guidance BPOA provides to its members. While most of our resources are member-only, this section includes a few tools and references open to all.
A lower-priced association may promise “Berkeley” forms, but the label does not guarantee reliable, current guidance. Before choosing based on price alone, see what BPOA actually provides—and what “saving” could cost you. Continue Reading
Berkeley’s Amnesty Program offers owners of eligible single-family properties a path to legalize certain unpermitted ADUs and JADUs built before 2020. Free anonymous consultations are available before applying. The program runs through 2028. Continue Reading
Should you furnish your rental? The answer depends on your property, target market, lease terms, and management style. Explore the advantages, tradeoffs, and hidden costs of furnished and unfurnished rentals to determine which strategy best supports your goals. Continue Reading
Help new tenants understand Berkeley's Zero Waste program from day one. This article includes a printable move-in guide explaining what belongs in the compost, recycling, and landfill carts, along with practical tips to reduce contamination, overflowing carts, and disposal issues. Continue Reading
Inside this issue: Capitol & Council; Op-Ed: We Need to Solve Squatting; Berkeley Tenant Union BRSB Nominees; CalRHA Public Policy Update March 2026; "Why Rent Controls Don't Work (from 1977!); Some Tenants Get It; Berkeley Ranked Worst Housing Market for Buyers; The Nuts & Bolts; and more... Continue Reading
From notice to deposit return, each step matters. Send required documents early, conduct inspections properly, document conditions, and return the deposit within 21 days of move-out. Includes Berkeley-specific requirements like deposit interest. Continue Reading
Registration fees are due Thursday, July 2, 2026. Miss the deadline, and the penalty doubles your cost. This guide covers who must register, what you owe, and how to avoid common mistakes. Continue Reading
Rodent issues can quickly become maintenance and habitability concerns. Learn why some housing providers choose exclusion-based rodent control, how the process works, and what to expect from inspection through monitoring. Continue Reading
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
