The Knowledge Hub curates BPOA’s most valuable educational resources—newsletters, articles, recorded webinars, and more—organized by topic for quick access. Whether you’re tackling a rent registration issue, preparing for move-in, or trying to understand a new regulation, this is where you’ll find topic-specific guidance, fast.
Berkeley’s Empty Homes Tax now applies to any unit left vacant for more than 182 days, not just rentals. Even if your unit is listed for rent or inherited through probate, you may owe thousands in annual penalties. Learn who’s affected, what counts as “vacant,” and how to avoid the tax. Continue Reading
Explore the key elements of rental housing compliance in Berkeley, including the rent stabilization ordinance and its laws. Learn about the registration process, rent ceilings, and eviction protections. Discover special exemptions like the golden duplex rule and the Costa Hawkins Rental Act and more Continue Reading
A beginners guide for Berkeley Rental Housing Providers Continue Reading
Don’t wait for the cancellation notice. Learn what proactive owners are doing to stay insured—and how to fight back if your policy is dropped. Continue Reading
New year, same questions. California’s security deposit law changed in 2024; are you in compliance? This 2025 guide explains what you can (and can’t) collect, how to handle “last month’s rent,” and how Berkeley’s local rules layer on top. Continue Reading
In this issue: Editorial by Dan Lieberman, Renting in a Softer Market, Part 1; Coalition Corner; Rent Control Creates Privileged Tenants; CalRHA Public Policy Updates; The Tenant Screening Trap; The Nuts & Bolts; CA City Wants an Anti-Housing Insurgency; No Vacant Unit Goes Untaxed; Events Calendar 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
If a tenant breaks their lease, you can recover losses—but only if you act reasonably. Learn what the law allows, what it prohibits, and which BPOA forms to use. Continue Reading
Did you know the Rent Board keeps a file on every registered rental property? Learn what’s inside yours—and how to request a free digital copy to confirm your records match the city’s. Continue Reading
Inside this issue: Ellis Evictions; SF Apartment Subsidies; List of Worst Cities; Rents Up 14%; Can Oakland Law Slow Gentrification?; San Jose Mulls More Rent Control; Santa Monica Prohibits Discrimination; Sweeping Changes to Rein in NYC Rents; NY Eviction for Airbnb; Members Meeting; and more... Continue Reading
Planning to move into your Berkeley rental? There are only a handful of legal ways to regain possession from a tenant, and each comes with strict rules. Before you act, read our guide to avoid costly mistakes. Continue Reading
Governor Newsom Unveils Proposal to Cut Red Tape and Fast-Track Housing & Development; Press Statements: SB 436 and 522; Notice to CA Rental Housing Providers: Two Initiatives to Strengthen Prop 13 Submitted; Building Housing in Walkable Neighborhoods: Are US Cities & States Making Progress? & more Continue Reading
