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.
Smoking has been prohibited in Berkeley Multi-Unit Housing since 2014. Learn who must comply with the Smoke-Free Housing Ordinance, where smoking is prohibited, what signage and lease language are required, and download BPOA's ordinance-compliant smoke-free signs. Continue Reading
Inside this issue: Capitol & Council; A Gas Ban Near You; MA Rent Control Question Tossed from Ballot; CalRHA Public Policy Update; Fareed Zakaria on California; The Hidden Role of Property Managers; BRSB Class Action Lawsuit Update; The Nuts & Bolts; Monthly Event Calendar; and more.... 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
A thoughtfully furnished rental should be attractive, durable, and easy to maintain. Learn how to select furniture, linens, kitchenware, and household essentials that appeal to prospective residents, support your asking rent, and simplify turnover. Continue Reading
Everyone has different housekeeping standards. This guide explains the difference between ordinary housekeeping, conditions that affect health and safety or the property, and how residents and owners can work together to address concerns respectfully and appropriately. Continue Reading
The Golden Duplex exemption is one of Berkeley's most valuable—and most misunderstood—rental housing exemptions. Learn who qualifies, how the exemption works, what can turn it on or off, and why the 1979 record matters. Continue Reading
Whether reported by a tenant or discovered during an inspection, termites, dry rot, carpenter ants, and powderpost beetles require prompt attention. Learn why early detection and investigation matter. Continue Reading
Not every additional occupant supports a rent increase. Learn when Berkeley landlords may petition for a 10% upward adjustment of the lawful rent ceiling, which family members are exempt, and why occupancy changes matter. Continue Reading
Inside this issue: Capitol & Council; Landlords Want Pay for Pandemic Losses; Affordable Housing is Slipping Away; CalRHA Public Policy Update March 2026; The ChatGPT Tenant Letter Has Arrived; UCB to Promise Two Years of Student Housing; 10 Unintended Consequences of Rent Control; and more... Continue Reading
California's insurance market remains challenging for many rental housing providers. This article offers guidance, broker referrals, and consumer resources to help owners navigate non-renewals, coverage changes, and insurance options for rental properties. 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
Considering smart locks for your rental property? Learn what Berkeley housing providers should know about keyed backups, resident notice, reasonable accommodations, Wi-Fi, access codes, and choosing durable hardware that works for both residents and management. Continue Reading
