This section gathers all articles related to Berkeley’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance. Topics include coverage categories (fully covered, partially covered, exempt), exemptions like Golden Duplex and SFR + ADU, registration and fee obligations, lawful rent increases, and rules for buyouts and relocation assistance.
Holding title in a revocable living trust does not automatically affect your eligibility for a Berkeley owner-occupancy exemption. However, owners claiming an exemption through a revocable living trust must submit additional documentation to establish their eligibility. 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
Raising rent on a rent-controlled unit? This guide shows you how to use Berkeley’s AGA notice correctly—covering eligibility, timing, rent ceiling calculations, and notice rules to help you avoid common errors. Continue Reading
From notice to deposit return, each step matters. Send required documents early, conduct inspections properly, document conditions, and return the deposit within 21 days of move-out. Includes Berkeley-specific requirements like deposit interest. Continue Reading
Registration fees are due Thursday, July 2, 2026. Miss the deadline, and the penalty doubles your cost. This guide covers who must register, what you owe, and how to avoid common mistakes. Continue Reading
Document lease violations clearly and effectively. This form helps you identify the specific lease term at issue, describe the conduct, and create a written record that supports enforcement under Berkeley’s Just Cause Ordinance. Continue Reading
Originally live-streamed April 2, 2026. BPOA Executive Director, Krista Gulbransen, explains what makes a notice of lease violation legally compliant, including how to clearly describe the violation and provide an opportunity to cure—so your notice is enforceable whether or not eviction is pursued. Continue Reading
Berkeley’s FY 2026–2027 registration fees are $397 (fully covered) and $244 (partially covered) per unit. Payments are due July 1, 2026. A 100% late payment penalty applies starting July 2 and increases by 100% again on January 1, 2027. Continue Reading
From application to move-out, this guide outlines the records every housing provider should maintain and how to build a complete, defensible tenancy file over time. 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
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
Each year, the Berkeley Rent Stabilization Board sets two key figures that affect nearly every rental housing provider in the city: the Annual General Adjustment (AGA)—Berkeley’s allowable rent increase—and the annual interest rate payable on tenants’ security deposits. Continue Reading
