Bill > AB1157

This bill modifies California's tenant protection laws by making several key changes to existing statutes governing residential rental properties. The bill reduces the maximum annual rent increase from 5% plus the cost of living (or 10%) to 2% plus the cost of living (or 5%), whichever is lower, and eliminates the previous exemption for residential properties that can be sold separately from other dwelling units. The legislation removes the previous January 1, 2030 sunset provision, effectively making these rental restrictions permanent. For no-fault evictions, landlords must still provide relocation assistance or rent waiver equal to one month's rent. The bill continues to provide some exemptions for specific types of housing, such as mobilehomes under certain ownership conditions, dormitories, and owner-occupied properties with limited rental units. Additionally, the bill removes the previous time-limited nature of the just cause termination requirements, making these protections a permanent part of California's rental law. Landlords who violate these provisions can be subject to civil penalties, including actual damages, potential attorney's fees, and in cases of willful misconduct, up to three times the actual damages. The bill aims to provide more stability and protection for tenants by limiting rent increases and restricting the circumstances under which a tenant can be evicted.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1157