California’s housing crisis has led to significant changes in landlord-tenant law. Whether you’re a landlord or a renter, understanding California’s rent control laws is critical to avoid legal pitfalls and ensure compliance. Attorneys at SBEMP (Slovak, Baron, Empey, Murphy & Pinkney) law firm provides professional legal advice and services to clients in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Inland Empire, Orange County, Coachella Valley, and surrounding communities.
Statewide Rent Control: AB 1482
Enacted in 2020, the Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) introduced statewide rent control and eviction protections. Key provisions include:
– Rent caps: Annual rent increases are limited to 5% + inflation (not to exceed 10%)
– Eviction protections: Landlords must have “just cause” for terminating a tenancy
– Applies to: Most apartments built before January 1, 2005
This law sets the baseline, but local jurisdictions may impose stricter rules.
Local Rent Control Ordinances
Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley have their own rent control programs, which may:
– Limit rent increases more strictly
– Provide relocation assistance for tenants
– Impose additional registration and reporting requirements for landlords
Always check local laws before raising rent or terminating leases.
Exemptions and Limitations
Not all properties are subject to rent control. Exemptions may apply to:
– Single-family homes and condos (if owned by individuals)
– New construction (within the last 15 years)
– Owner-occupied duplexes
Landlords must include specific language in leases to claim exemptions.
Tenant and Landlord Rights
Tenants: Have the right to receive proper notice for rent increases or evictions, and to contest unlawful actions.
Landlords: Have the right to raise rent within legal limits and evict for just cause, including non-payment or lease violations.
Legal Risks of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with rent control laws can result in:
– Fines and penalties
– Tenant lawsuits
– Forced reinstatement of tenants
Consulting a landlord-tenant attorney helps ensure you’re operating within legal bounds.
California’s rent control laws are complex and constantly evolving. Whether you own rental property or lease one, understanding your rights and obligations is essential to maintaining lawful and respectful housing relationships.
Have any legal questions? Contact the Attorneys at SBEMP Law Firm:
For more information or to request a consultation please contact the law offices of SBEMP (Slovak, Baron, Empey, Murphy & Pinkney) by clicking here.
SBEMP LLP is a full service law firm with attorney offices in Palm Springs (Palm Desert, Inland Empire, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells), CA; Indian Wells, CA; Costa Mesa (Orange County), CA; San Diego, CA; New Jersey, NJ; and New York, NY.
DISCLAIMER: This blog post does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by reading it. This blog post may be considered ATTORNEY ADVERTISING in some states. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Additional facts or future developments may affect subjects contained within this blog post. Before acting or relying upon any information within this newsletter, seek the advice of an attorney.
