Landlords, except those considered “Mom and Pop” landlords, will have tenant security deposits capped at one month’s rent, down from the current law’s limit of two months for unfinished units, three months if they’re furnished, starting in July. These amounts don’t include the first month’s rent. The new law makes…
Given how critical housing issues have become, it should be no surprise that Governor Newsom signed more than 60 housing-related bills in 2023. Many of them build on prior legislation, expanding their effect and reach. Others took local programs and will bring them statewide. Increased Tenant Protections Here are some…
Property owners commonly charge fees for legitimate reasons, while others charge them to increase revenue. If all the fees were reflected in the rent, it would increase, and the price would be less competitive. Thanks to a bill signed into law in October by Governor Newsom, starting in July you…
If your building was constructed during or before the early 1980s, there’s a chance there’s asbestos in it. Asbestos is a mineral fiber that’s been used in thousands of products for hundreds of years. Some of those products were used in residential homes and apartment buildings. Asbestos is a public…
Property owners should take reasonable steps to prevent someone from slipping and falling in an area that’s their responsibility. You may face one of these legal actions despite your efforts or because a plaintiff makes a baseless claim. Be Proactive to Try to Prevent Lawsuits Facts fuel lawsuits and defenses…
Are you truly at home if you can’t quietly enjoy it? Renters, even in a major city, have a right to quietly enjoy their units, thanks to California law. Landlords need to protect these rights, or, in the worst case scenario, it may be a valid reason for a tenant…
Your tenant is responsible for paying for repairing and cleaning anything beyond ordinary wear and tear to the unit. Anything that falls with ordinary wear and tear is your responsibility. Some tenants damage property, while some landlords deduct the costs from security deposits for regular cleaning and maintenance. Where’s the…
We all need to vent, and there are times when we have important questions that need answers. But if you’re in a situation that might result in legal action, whether you’re the person filing it (the plaintiff) or the person accused of wrongdoing (the defendant), turning to social media is…
Cockroaches and other pests are a fact of life when you own rental property. That doesn’t mean they should be ignored because if the problem becomes severe enough, a tenant may claim they’ve been constructively evicted because the unit’s uninhabitable. What’s a Cockroach? Cockroaches are insects that have been around…
The income from rent keeps buildings maintained and repaired and puts money in landlords’ pockets. There are statewide and local ordinances regulating rent increases, so you’re not in a business where you can freely increase prices as you see fit. You can try to maximize your income while complying with…
