Practical guidance for handling everyday landlord responsibilities—communication, documentation, notices, forms, and decision-making strategies to help you stay organized and avoid common mistakes.
In this March 2026 session of the Owners Forum, BPOA Vice President and Berkeley property manager Sam Sorokin shares his perspectives on leasing strategy, structuring lease terms, and managing risk in Berkeley’s regulatory environment, followed by questions and discussion. Continue Reading
After the March 2026 Owners Forum with Sam Sorokin, many members asked about lease renewals, rent increases, and concessions. In Berkeley, the rules differ depending on whether a unit is fully covered, partially covered, or exempt from rent control, which affects common leasing strategies. Continue Reading
No housing provider plans to end up at the Rent Board or in court. But in Berkeley’s regulated environment, strong documentation matters. Learn how to build and maintain a complete electronic property file that protects your time, your position, and your professionalism. Continue Reading
Practical guidance for handling smoking and odor complaints in Berkeley smoke-free rental housing, including ordinance requirements, documentation strategies, and what owners can realistically expect from enforcement. Continue Reading
RHSP compliance requires more than an inspection: owners must complete the SCC each year, keep it on file, provide tenant copies, and pay the annual City fee. This guide explains what Berkeley housing providers must do by July 1. Continue Reading
Today, USPS no longer reliably stamps mail when you hand it over or drop it in a mailbox. Most mail is now postmarked later, when it is processed by an automated regional sorting facility. That can be days after you mailed it. Continue Reading
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
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
