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.
Learn when to use a lease addendum and when to create a separate agreement—especially for optional services like parking or storage that aren’t included in the rent. Continue Reading
Pets, ESAs, & Service Animals - What's the difference, and when can you charge fees? This article breaks it down in clear, everyday language designed to be accessible to rental housing providers, even if they’re not legal experts. Continue Reading
When to use an Offer to Rent, How it Works, and When You Can Claim Daily Damages Continue Reading
This article explains the purpose, obligations, and essential legal elements of BPOA’s Guarantor Agreement when used in Berkeley rental housing. This is not legal advice—when in doubt, consult an attorney. Continue Reading
Roommates move out, romantic partners move in, or new household members are added. Any time there's a change in household composition, it’s smart—and often necessary—to document it in writing. Continue Reading
Required notices to all tenancies in Berkeley, at the inception of the tenancy Continue Reading
Understanding the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) and Your Responsibilities as a Rental Housing Provider Continue Reading
An overview of Measure BB's impact on RUBS and utility billing rules for fully covered units. Continue Reading
A playback recording of our October 24, 2024 webinar, hosted by Kathleen Castro, Product Success Manager, Intellirent. Continue Reading
A playback recording of our June 12, 2024, presentation hosted by our Intellirent partners, Kara Hohne and Kathleen Castro Continue Reading
A playback recording of our February 29th, 2024, webinar hosted by Kara Hohne and Kathleen Castro of Intellirent. Continue Reading
People spend more time interacting with marketing ads featuring photography. Research has proven that ads without photos = ads without views! In this article, the BPOA's deputy director shares her tricks and tips for getting great pics with a smartphone! Continue Reading
