Starting & Ending Tenancy

Everything you need to know about welcoming new tenants and wrapping up tenancies—legally, clearly, and efficiently. Includes required notices, inspections, possession, and documentation.

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Wear and Tear vs. Damage: What Landlords Can Deduct from the Security Deposit
Wear and Tear vs. Damage: What Landlords Can Deduct from the Security Deposit

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

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/29/2025


Pre-Move-Out Inspections & Photo Documentation — Protecting Your Right to Deductions
Pre-Move-Out Inspections & Photo Documentation — Protecting Your Right to Deductions

Pre-move-out inspections are not just a formality—they’re the first step in protecting your right to lawful deductions. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/21/2025


Storage PODs in Berkeley: What Housing Providers Need to Know
Storage PODs in Berkeley: What Housing Providers Need to Know

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

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/20/2025


Your Tenants Have Given Notice to Vacate — Now What?
Your Tenants Have Given Notice to Vacate — Now What?

A step-by-step guide for Berkeley rental housing providers Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/20/2025


Your New Tenant Is Official—Now What? A Step-by-Step Move-In Guide
Your New Tenant Is Official—Now What? A Step-by-Step Move-In Guide

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

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/20/2025


First Impressions Matter: Best Practices for Documenting Move-Ins
First Impressions Matter: Best Practices for Documenting Move-Ins

Properly documenting the condition of a unit at the start of a tenancy. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted05/13/2025


When A Landlord Can Charge For Cleaning: An Overview of State Law
When A Landlord Can Charge For Cleaning: An Overview of State Law

Understanding Reasonable Cleanliness, Move-Out Inspections, and Legal Deposit Deductions Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/9/2025


Tenant Notice at End of Lease: Your Rights and Limits Under Berkeley Law
Tenant Notice at End of Lease: Your Rights and Limits Under Berkeley Law

As a Berkeley rental housing provider, knowing what to expect when a tenant gives notice to vacate can help you plan the turnover process, protect your rental income, and stay in compliance with state and local law. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted04/30/2025


Recorded Webinar: Preparing for Phase One - Photo Documentation Requirement
Recorded Webinar: Preparing for Phase One - Photo Documentation Requirement

AB 2801 modified § 1950.5, California's laws governing security deposits, requiring photo documentation to justify deductions. This webinar dissects "Phase One" of the law, which begins on April 1, 2025, and affects move-outs from that day forward. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted03/20/2025


Photographic Evidence: A New Standard In Security Deposit Documentation
Photographic Evidence: A New Standard In Security Deposit Documentation

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

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted02/1/2025


The Lease Addendum for Purpose of Future Costa-Hawkins Rent Increase & When You Should You Use It
The Lease Addendum for Purpose of Future Costa-Hawkins Rent Increase & When You Should You Use It

What Is the Lease Addendum for Purpose of Future Costa-Hawkins Rent Increase—And When Should You Use It? Read on to find out! Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted01/1/2025