Numerous state and federal laws regulate rental housing and tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities. The following resources are intended to provide general information and guidelines for tenants and landlords; however, assistance from an attorney or legal aid organization may be necessary to navigate specific situations and issues.

California Tenants: A Guide to Residential Tenants’ and Landlords’ Rights and Responsibilities (Resource document published by the CA Dept. of Real Estate)

Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482)

The Tenant Protection Act is a statewide law that went into effect on January 1, 2020 and expires on January 1, 2030. The law:

• Requires a landlord to have “just cause” in order to terminate a tenancy.
• Limits annual rent increases to no more than 5% plus the local CPI (Consumer Price Index) or 10%, whichever is lower.
• Generally applies to housing that is older than 15 years on properties containing two or more units; however, there are exemptions and exceptions. Landlords should refer to the California Tenants guide linked above or other resources to determine whether their property is subject to the restrictions of the Tenant Protection Act.

Additional information about the Tenant Protection Act can be found in the California Tenants guide linked above.

Source of Income Protection

Effective January 1, 2020, rejecting a potential tenant based on their participation in a rental assistance program is considered a form of housing discrimination pursuant to the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). All landlords in California are required to accept Section 8, Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers, and other forms of rental assistance and consider them as part of an applicant’s income. Landlords should not include phrases such as, “We do not participate in Section 8” on advertisements for rental units.

Source of Income FAQ – CA Department of Fair Employment and Housing