From setting rent and evaluating applicants to issuing leases and onboarding new tenants, this section offers guidance on every phase of the leasing process. Explore best practices, legal requirements, and compliance tips to help you lease confidently and screen fairly—no matter the size of your property.
This article tackles some common leasing questions Continue Reading
If you missed the livestream on May 8th, don’t miss the playback. Clifford Fried, leading landlord-tenant attorney and partner at Fried, Williams Grice Conner LLP, guides BPOA members through key issues in college student rentals. A must-watch for any housing provider who rents to students! Continue Reading
Including an auto-renewal clause in a Berkeley lease is legal, but only if you follow very specific rules under Berkeley Municipal Code Chapter 13.79. Continue Reading
A step-by-step guide to reviewing Intellirent Renter Resumes, applying screening criteria, and selecting a qualified tenant while staying compliant with state and local laws. Continue Reading
Measure BB changed the rules for Berkeley landlords: you can no longer require tenants to sign a new lease at the end of a fixed term. This article explains what happens when a lease ends, how auto-renewal and lease extensions work under the new law, and your options for lawful rent increases. Continue Reading
Under Berkeley’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance, the treatment of housing services—such as parking, storage, laundry, or utilities—depends on whether the rental unit is fully covered (subject to rent control and eviction protections) or partially covered (subject only to eviction protections). Continue Reading
As a Berkeley rental housing provider, knowing what to expect when a tenant gives notice to vacate can help you plan the turnover process, protect your rental income, and stay in compliance with state and local law. Continue Reading
State law requiring offering tenant the ability to have their positive rental payment information reported to a nationwide credit agency. Continue Reading
A playback recording of Sam Sorokin's March 12th, 2025, leasing workshop. Grab a cup of coffee, a notepad and pen, and spend an hour and a half-ish learning from a leasing master with 30 years experience! Continue Reading
Local landlord attorney, Daniel Bornstein, gives an overview of the revisions to Civil Code 1950.6, the result of legislation aimed to enhance transparency in the tenant application process, and summarizes the rules for housing providers who charge tenant application & screening fees. Continue Reading
International applicants often lack U.S. credit, but they can still be screened responsibly. This guide explains how to verify identity, assess financial stability, and evaluate rental history, all while adhering to California law and fair housing rules. Continue Reading
Use the table inside to understand what’s allowed, what’s required, and how to stay compliant when a tenant requests to live with a service animal or ESA. Continue Reading
