Lawbrarian

Understanding California's New Rent Control Laws

Talk to a Lawyer About This Topic →

Ready to Talk to a Lawyer?

Get connected with a licensed attorney who can help with your specific legal question.

Start a Conversation →
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on Lawbrarian is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Every legal situation is unique, and the content on this site should not be relied upon as legal counsel. If you need legal advice specific to your circumstances, please consult with a licensed attorney. You can connect with one of our attorneys through the "Talk to a Lawyer" feature available on every page.

California's Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) caps annual rent increases at 5% plus the local rate of inflation, or 10%, whichever is lower. This applies to most residential properties that are at least 15 years old.

The law also requires landlords to have just cause for eviction, providing significant protections for long-term tenants. Some cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles have even stricter local rent control ordinances that may provide additional protections.

If you're a tenant in California, it's important to know that your landlord must provide proper written notice of any rent increase, and increases cannot exceed the cap. Violations can be reported to local housing authorities.