Understand California’s evolving rules on security deposit handling—from collection and documentation to refund timelines and lawful deductions. Includes compliance with AB 2801’s photo documentation mandates.
New year, same questions. California’s security deposit law changed in 2024; are you in compliance? This 2025 guide explains what you can (and can’t) collect, how to handle “last month’s rent,” and how Berkeley’s local rules layer on top. Continue Reading
Cleaning deductions must be reasonable. Landlords may charge if the unit was returned excessively dirty—but not just because it isn’t professionally cleaned. This section explains when cleaning charges are justified and how to document them properly. Continue Reading
Pre-move-out inspections are not just a formality—they’re the first step in protecting your right to lawful deductions. Continue Reading
Understanding Reasonable Cleanliness, Move-Out Inspections, and Legal Deposit Deductions Continue Reading
An overview of AB 2801, the new state law amending Civil Code 1950.5 to mandate photo documentation for security deposit deduction justification. Continue Reading
Starting July 1, 2024, California has decreased the amount you can charge a tenant for the security deposit. Continue Reading
