California Rent Control in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith
Ca Rent Control

Introduction

As a housing policy analyst and tenant rights advocate with over two decades of experience in California, I’ve witnessed the evolution of rent control laws and their impact on tenants and landlords. In 2024, understanding rent control is more crucial than ever for California renters and property owners. This guide aims to provide a clear, up-to-date overview of rent control laws in California, including recent changes and their implications.

1. The Basics of Rent Control in California

Ca Rent Control

Rent control in California consists of state laws and local ordinances designed to limit rent increases and provide tenant protection. As of 2024, California has a statewide rent control law, the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482), which works alongside stricter local rent control laws in some cities.

2. California’s Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) in 2024

The Tenant Protection Act, often referred to as AB 1482, remains the cornerstone of statewide rent control in California. Key points for 2024 include:

  • Rent increases are capped at 5% plus the change in the regional Consumer Price Index (CPI), or 10%, whichever is lower.
  • The law applies to most rental properties at least 15 years old.
  • Single-family homes and condos are exempt if owned by individuals (not corporations or REITs).

3. Local Rent Control Laws vs. State Law

Many California cities have rent control ordinances that may be stricter than AB 1482. In 2024, cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Oakland continue to enforce local rent control laws that often provide stronger protections for tenants.

4. Rent Increase Limits for 2024

Under AB 1482, the maximum allowable rent increase in 2024 is [specific percentage, e.g., 8.8%]. This figure is based on the 5% base plus the change in CPI. However, remember that local ordinances may set lower limits.

5. Properties Covered by Rent Control

bank California Rent Control

As of 2024, rent control typically applies to:

  • Apartments built before 2009 (15 years old or more)
  • Duplexes where the owner doesn’t live in one of the units
  • Some single-family homes and condos owned by corporations or REITs

6. Exempt Properties

Certain properties remain exempt from rent control in 2024:

  • Newer construction (less than 15 years old)
  • Single-family homes and condos owned by individuals
  • Duplexes where the owner lives in one unit

7. Just Cause Eviction Protections

Rent Control

AB 1482 continues to provide just cause eviction protections in 2024. Landlords must have a valid reason to evict tenants who have lived in the unit for at least 12 months.

8. Relocation Assistance

For no-fault evictions (like owner move-in), landlords must provide relocation assistance equal to one month’s rent or waive the last month’s rent.

9. Vacancy Decontrol

California’s state law allows for vacancy decontrol, meaning landlords can set new rents to market rate when a tenant moves out voluntarily or is evicted for just cause.

10. Banking Rent Increases

rent Control

Some local ordinances allow landlords to “bank” unused rent increases for future years. Check your local rent board for specific rules in 2024.

Related Terms: California Tenant Protection Act, real estate investment trust, annual rent increases, statewide rent control laws, rental units, initial rent, rental property, pay rent, San Francisco rent ordinance, raise rent, lease or rental agreement, California rent control law, rent hikes

11. Pass-Through Costs

Certain expenses, like capital improvements or increased property taxes, may be partially passed on to tenants. The rules for this vary by locality in 2024.

12. Rent Registration Requirements

Many rent-controlled jurisdictions require landlords to register their units and report rents annually. In 2024, more cities will implement or expand these programs.

13. Rent Board Services

California Rent Control

Cities with rent control often have rent boards that provide services like mediation between landlords and tenants. These continue to be valuable resources in 2024.

14. Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act

This state law, which limits local rent control ordinances, will remain in effect in 2024. It exempts single-family homes and newer construction from local rent control.

15. The Impact of Inflation on Rent Control

The CPI component of rent increase calculations has become increasingly important with fluctuating inflation rates in 2024. Tenants and landlords should stay informed about current CPI figures.

16. Affordable Housing Initiatives

California Rent Control

In 2024, California will continue implementing various affordable housing initiatives that work alongside rent control to address the housing crisis.

17. Short-Term Rentals and Rent Control

Many cities have implemented or tightened regulations on short-term rentals to preserve long-term rental stock. In 2024, these rules will interact with rent control laws in complex ways.

18. Rent Control and New Construction

While new construction is exempt from rent control, debates continue in 2024 about the impact of rent control on housing development and how to balance tenant protections with the need for new housing.

As of 2024, various legal challenges to state and local rent control laws are ongoing. Tenants and landlords should stay informed about potential changes resulting from court decisions.

20. Resources for Tenants and Landlords

In 2024, numerous resources are available for tenants and landlords to understand their rights and responsibilities under rent control laws, including online tools, workshops, and legal clinics.

Conclusion

California’s rent control landscape in 2024 continues to evolve as the state grapples with its ongoing housing affordability crisis. While the Tenant Protection Act provides a statewide baseline, the interplay between state and local laws creates a complex system that varies significantly across different cities and counties. To understand their rights and obligations fully, tenants and landlords must stay informed about their specific local ordinances and state laws.

As we progress, the debate around rent control’s effectiveness in promoting affordable housing while ensuring fair returns for property owners remains active. Policymakers continue to explore innovative solutions to balance these competing interests.

Remember, while this guide provides a comprehensive overview, it’s always best to consult a qualified legal professional or local housing authority for advice on specific situations. Stay informed, know your rights, and actively engage in your local community’s housing discussions to help shape California’s future housing policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Q: If I agree with my landlord to increase my rent by more than the AB 1482 cap, can I? A: The AB 1482 rent cap is not waivable, even with tenant consent.
  2. Q: Under AB 1482, how often can my rent be increased? A: Rent can be increased up to twice in 12 months, but the total increase cannot exceed the annual cap.
  3. Q: If I live in a city with local rent control, which law applies – local or state? A: Generally, the law that provides stronger tenant protections applies. In many cases, this will be the local law.
  4. Q: Can a landlord evict me to raise the rent for a new tenant? A: This would be considered an illegal eviction under AB 1482 and most local rent control laws.
  5. Q: Can a property owner be exempt from rent control in any circumstances? A: Certain types of properties (like single-family homes owned by individuals) and newer constructions are exempt. Always check both state law and local ordinances for specific exemptions.

Remember, while this FAQ addresses common questions, rent control laws are complex and can vary significantly based on local ordinances. It’s advisable to consult with a local tenant rights organization or a qualified attorney for specific situations.

Client Reviews

James Arrasmith is one smart attorney! He understood my problem and came up with a great solution right away. I can depend on him to listen and ask the right questions to get straight to my issues. His availability is...

Alan Murphy

Hiring James to handle my eviction / landlord tenant case is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. He assisted me every step of the way and made the process smooth and easy. It was obvious that he truly cared about...

Monica Martínez alvarado

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

DD M

Great consultation, efficient, attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process. Mr...

Nadia Faraci

James is an amazing attorney!! I had never hired a lawyer before (and was very nervous), but James took hours of his time to explain the entire procedure to me. He gave me a thorough consultation, and I was so impressed...

Ledi

James was the only person to answer the phone at 7am on a Saturday morning. My first phone call to him was as a scared and stressed woman with no idea on where to even begin to explain the sort of help I needed. James...

Renae Elise

James helped me with two landlord tenant issues. In both cases, I was able to expeditiously resolve my issue with the tenant. I appreciate his genuine care for his clients; a rare trait in an attorney. I would highly...

theresa26 r

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave...

Tricia Matsis

James Arrasmith did a great job for me on my legal matter. From the first time I talked to him he was very professional and knew what he was talking about. I would recommend James Arrasmith to anyone who needs help with...

Alvin Warren

I can't express enough how much James put my heart at ease. He has really been dugiligant at getting things done vs what I have experienced before using other lawyers. Highly recommend James if your looking for trust...

Jeremy Rasmussen Finnif Skate

James Arrasmith is a fantastic attorney. He is respectful and knowledgeable! Always very responsive and really takes his time explaining everything so you can understand it. I would highly recommend you meet with James...

Andrew Noseworthy

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James Pearson

Highly recommend choosing James. He was extremely responsive always making sure I understood every step of the process. In addition, he would periodically check in with me before important decisions needed to be made.

Tulsi

He is experts and reasonable attorney.

Ahmad Ali Shinwary

Best attorney I ever worked with... he takes time to explain the whole process and and will make sure you are happy with his work. We did a living trust and he helped me with an eviction case. I highly recommend him!

Alina Cojocari

James is an excellent attorney. I recommend him to anyone who's looking for someone who cares and wants to help win their case! :)

Allen Esealuka

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber Styles

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave her...

Tricia

James is a professional with outstanding customer service. We hired him to take care of an issue for us and he delivered as promised. I highly recommend him if you have any ongoing legal issues. James it's absolute...

Aztec Gold99

He will go out of his way . The best lawyer in Sacramento!I don’t know what I would do without lawyer james.

Bryan

Very professional, understanding and willing to assist in any way he can. I am most definitely keeping James as my one stop shop lawyer.

Brad Naylor

I am so happy I found Mr. Arrasmith's law firm! I couldn't have been happier with my decision to hire James. He took my case from point A to point Z and kept me informed every step of the way. If I ever need an attorney...

Bryce Colburn

James is a wonderful addition to the legal community. He is hard working, bright and ethical. He goes the extra mile for his clients.

Caitlin Ross

He was a great attorney.

Devon Campbell

I contacted Mr. Arrasmith regarding a disability related inquiry for a family member. Mr. Arrasmith provided excellent and immediate responses to my questions. I felt as though he truly cared about the well being of my...

Anonymous

Great consultation, efficient, & positive attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process...

Nadia

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber

James is a great guy. He has helped me to start a very difficult case. That I was nervous to do. He has made me Confident that he will fight hard on my case.

Rachel

I am so happy I made a decision to hire James to help me with my case. He was very professional and assisted me every step of the way. I was able to get a very positive settlement on my case. I couldn’t be happier!

Ledi

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patty

James did a great job helping us with getting our settlement. Followed up in timely manners and updates always provided. Thank you for your help!

Anonymous

Gave James smith a call late at night with an immediate answer, he is very quick to respond and was eager to answer any questions I had.

Erika

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

Darren

James is a great lawyer! He is honest and very trustworthy. He will give you sound legal advice.

Jason Motto

Great service and customer service. Very professional too, thanks James and Maria!! Having a bilingual attorney who knows so many different aspects of the law is a BIG plus.

JC R

I found James online after an extensive search. He was knowledgeable and worked with me on a payment plan I could afford. I'm happy I picked him for dealing with my awful landlord. He helped me get the settlement I...

Jenn C

Lawyer James Arrasmith For me He very was very approachable and likeable as a person . I felt very comfortable with the knowledge, and information shared for our case. which we got desired result from. He to me is a...

John Davis

James is a wonderful lawyer and person! He is hardworking , ethical, quick and effective lawyer! He knows what he is doing.

Ka Saelee

James Arrasmith always does amazing job helping me with my landlord and tenant cases!! He is my go-to attorney when I need assistance in evicting tenants. I like how he also represents tenants as well as landlords - so...

Kerry Davis

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen Trexler

Best lawyer he will get the job done went out of his way totally

Larry Yabut

Mr. Arrasmith and his team are amazing. Mr. Arrasmith is very knowledgeable and has been amazing through our whole process. He treats people like a human being and not a paycheck, I would highly recommend him to...

Magan Mellinger

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen

I would highly recommend James. I did lots of research searching for a great Attorney in the area. He makes you feel hopeful during a difficult times. His knowledge and expertise was great!

Maria Guardado

I had a personal issue and needed to consult with a lawyer. James Arrasmith took his time to explain everything so that I could understand exactly what my options were and the best way to go about my next move. I would...

Mark Hodges

A Very Nice, Personable Attorney/Person!! He is Very Patient and Willing to Listen to My {Tour} Case/Problems>I would Highly Recommend James to Anyone Seeking Fair and Equitable Justice!! Mark, CA.

Mark Loeffler

Thank you Mr James for helping me. What a great attorney! If you need help call Mr Arrowsmith!

Marva Davis

I give James Arrowsmith Attorney at Law 5 stars not just because he supports and represents CAED (our Non- Profit Organization that works with children ) but also because of how decent a person I've found him ...

Marvell Wilson

I was sooooo nervous about my case until I called James. He literally made the entire process simple and easy for me. I cannot recommend him highly enough! He is the most amazing attorney I’ve ever had!

Peyton

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patsa Hin-udom

I am Latina and my English is not very good, therefore the attorney made sure that there was an assistant who spoke Spanish and who translated everything he told me and answered all my questions. Excellent service, I...

Paula Barriga

James is fantastic! He answered all of my questions and gave me clear guidance. If you are looking for an experienced and knowledgable attorney, I highly recommend James. Amazing Lawyer!

peyton cooks

James has a very good heart. He takes his cases personally as if it was him. He is a very nice understanding guy

Rachel Ottley

James is very knowledgeable, professional, and dependable. He patiently guided me through my estate planning and pre-nuptial questions, and made both processes much easier for me to understand. Highly recommended.

Sanat Sahasrabudhe

James arasmith is an excellent attorney when I needed help or advice he was always there to answer my calls or emails a very kind person listens & cares.

Tariq Johnson

Thank you so much for being highly responsive. Making I understand every step of the process. As well as checking in with me before important decisions need to be made.

Tulsi Patel

Very friendly, personable, and professional. I was able to get through my legal issue relatively smoothly and had exceptional support through the entire process. Pricing was reasonable and the billing process was not...

V Cat

I had some legal questions, and contacted James Arrasmith Law firm. His response was quick, and very helpful.

vera vlasenko

I highly recommend James Arrasmith. He really listens to your needs & truly cares about his clients. He is very professional & provides great results!

Vicky Tisdale

Contact Us Now

CF-pic.png

(916) 704-3009