Rent Ordinance Rules

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.

Free Resources Policy & Regulatory

The Key to Compliance: What You Can (and Can’t) Do When Changing Locks
The Key to Compliance: What You Can (and Can’t) Do When Changing Locks

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

Date posted01/1/2025


Understanding Just Cause for Eviction in Berkeley
Understanding Just Cause for Eviction in Berkeley

An overview of Berkeley's "Just Cause for Eviction" rules as of December 20, 2024. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted01/1/2025


About the Tenant Protection Ordinance (TPO) Disclosure
About the Tenant Protection Ordinance (TPO) Disclosure

The Tenant Protection Ordinance (TPO) requires all Berkeley rental housing providers to serve a disclosure informing tenants of their rights under BMC 13.79. Failure to provide this disclosure can serve as an affirmative defense to an eviction - it’s critical to include it with every new lease. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted01/1/2025


Rent Increases in Berkeley: What Housing Providers Need to Know in 2025
Rent Increases in Berkeley: What Housing Providers Need to Know in 2025

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

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted01/1/2025


Guide to Berkeley's Rent Stabilization Program
Guide to Berkeley's Rent Stabilization Program

A guide by the Rent Board on Berkeley's Rent Stabilization Program Continue Reading

Postedby Amanda Eberhart
Date posted01/1/2025


RSO Compliance 101: Determine Your Unit’s Coverage and Obligations in Berkeley
RSO Compliance 101: Determine Your Unit’s Coverage and Obligations in Berkeley

Understanding the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) and Your Responsibilities as a Rental Housing Provider Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted12/20/2024


Measure BB: RUBS and Utility Billing Rules for Fully Covered Units
Measure BB: RUBS and Utility Billing Rules for Fully Covered Units

An overview of Measure BB's impact on RUBS and utility billing rules for fully covered units. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted12/20/2024


How to Properly Serve Rent Increase Notices in California
How to Properly Serve Rent Increase Notices in California

Learn how to properly serve rent increase notices in California. This guide explains approved delivery methods, required mailing extensions, and how to avoid invalid notices that can void an otherwise lawful increase. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted11/14/2024