New form for fully exempt units: Even though it’s not required, the AB 1482 Exemption Disclosure can help document your unit’s exempt status and protect against future changes in the law. Use with care. Continue Reading
Starting/Ending A Tenancy
Start strong and end clean.
Everything you need to know about welcoming new tenants and wrapping up tenancies—legally, clearly, and efficiently. Includes required notices, inspections, possession, and documentation.
When tenants leave stuff behind, you can't just toss it. California law outlines strict steps for handling abandoned property. Miss one, and you could be on the hook. This guide explains what to do, when to do it, and how to stay protected. Continue Reading
AB 2801, which modified CA's security deposit law, is now fully in effect. Landlords must take move-in photos for all new tenancies and include move-out photos and "after repair" photo documentation with any deposit deductions. This guide explains what to photograph and how to stay compliant. Continue Reading
If a tenant breaks their lease, you can recover losses—but only if you act reasonably. Learn what the law allows, what it prohibits, and which BPOA forms to use. Continue Reading
Planning to move into your Berkeley rental? There are only a handful of legal ways to regain possession from a tenant, and each comes with strict rules. Before you act, read our guide to avoid costly mistakes. Continue Reading
This article explains what qualifies as legal notice to vacate, when email might count, and how landlords can respond if tenants attempt to give notice outside the lease’s required format. 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
Has your incoming or outgoing tenant asked about parking a storage POD on your property or on the city street? This article covers the basics! Continue Reading
A step-by-step guide for Berkeley rental housing providers Continue Reading
Signed lease in hand? Don’t hand over the keys just yet. Here’s what every landlord should do between lease signing and move-in day to ensure a smooth start and avoid costly mistakes! Continue Reading
Properly documenting the condition of a unit at the start of a tenancy. Continue Reading