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.
This article walks you through BPOA’s key forms used during the rental application process, what each one is for, when to use it, and how to stay compliant with California and federal law. Continue Reading
This article explains what qualifies as legal notice to vacate, when email might count, and how landlords can respond if tenants attempt to give notice outside the lease’s required format. Continue Reading
Cleaning deductions must be reasonable. Landlords may charge if the unit was returned excessively dirty—but not just because it isn’t professionally cleaned. This section explains when cleaning charges are justified and how to document them properly. Continue Reading
The City of Berkeley requires seismic retrofits for certain buildings that are especially vulnerable during an earthquake. If you own a rental property that falls into one of the categories below, you may be subject to mandatory retrofit requirements. Continue Reading
Thinking about offering your tenant money to move out? Berkeley has strict rules governing buyout agreements, and even small missteps can make the deal unenforceable. Learn what disclosures are required, how long tenants have to change their minds, and why legal guidance is essential. Continue Reading
Think asking for a selfie with ID or a link to Instagram helps prevent fraud? Think again. Learn why sticking to BPOA’s standard rental application is not just smart, it’s legally safer. Continue Reading
How to handle hoarding while meeting habitability and legal duties Continue Reading
In an era of fake pay stubs, spoofed references, and AI-generated documents, screening applicants is more complicated than ever. Learn how to identify common red flags and protect yourself from costly mistakes. Continue Reading
New rules under AB 2493 require California landlords to follow one of two approved screening processes—and issue refunds, receipts, and disclosures accordingly. Learn how to stay compliant under Civil Code § 1950.6. Continue Reading
Pre-move-out inspections are not just a formality—they’re the first step in protecting your right to lawful deductions. Continue Reading
Has your incoming or outgoing tenant asked about parking a storage POD on your property or on the city street? This article covers the basics! Continue Reading
Signed lease in hand? Don’t hand over the keys just yet. Here’s what every landlord should do between lease signing and move-in day to ensure a smooth start and avoid costly mistakes! Continue Reading
