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.
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
The Rent Board’s LIRA Committee has recommended a 1.0% Annual General Adjustment (AGA) for 2026. The full Board will vote on October 16, 2025, with increases effective January 1, 2026, for fully covered units. Unsure of your property’s status? Contact BPOA for guidance. Continue Reading
A flaw in Berkeley’s Rent Registry exposed tenant names, contacts, and Section 8 status for months. The issue is now fixed, but tenants may still question why their data is being collected. Housing providers should be ready to explain the legal requirement. Continue Reading
Security deposit interest is due every year in Berkeley — even at move-out. The Rent Board posts the annual rate each fall, and BPOA recommends paying it before December 31 to avoid penalties. Learn how to calculate, document, and stay compliant. Continue Reading
Did you know the Rent Board keeps a file on every registered rental property? Learn what’s inside yours—and how to request a free digital copy to confirm your records match the city’s. Continue Reading
Before you call the locksmith, know the rules. This guide explains when and how rental housing providers can legally change or rekey locks while staying compliant with state and local law. Continue Reading
Learn when and how you can legally raise the rent in Berkeley. This guide explains notice requirements, lawful rent ceilings, and which rules apply to fully covered, partially covered, and exempt units in 2025. Continue Reading
