Practical guidance for handling everyday landlord responsibilities—communication, documentation, notices, forms, and decision-making strategies to help you stay organized and avoid common mistakes.
A step-by-step guide to identifying lease breaches, writing compliant violation notices, and serving them correctly. Learn best practices and avoid common errors that can weaken your position under Berkeley and California law. Continue Reading
Tenants traveling this season? Learn how to protect your property, prevent moisture and storm damage, and communicate expectations—without overstepping privacy boundaries. Continue Reading
Learn how to establish firm boundaries with tenants without coming across as defensive. From late rent to common area disputes, these strategies help you hold your line clearly, calmly, and professionally. Continue Reading
New form for fully exempt units: The AB 1482 Exemption Disclosure can help document your unit’s exempt status and protect against future changes in the law. Use with care. Continue Reading
Even routine decisions, like accepting a late fee or choosing between applicants, can carry Fair Housing risk. Learn how to spot the ethical red flags that could undermine your credibility or land you in legal trouble. Continue Reading
Step-by-step guidance for using BPOA’s Change in Terms form to raise rent on certain non–rent-controlled units, like single-family homes, condos, and new construction. Covers notice periods, lawful use, and limits under Berkeley’s Just Cause protections. 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
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
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
A step-by-step guide for Berkeley rental housing providers 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
