7 Key California Rental Housing Law Changes For 2024
Keeping Pace with Evolving Regulations: What Property Owners Need to Know
As we approach the threshold of 2024, it's crucial for property owners to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to the ever-evolving landscape of rental housing laws in California. Over the past year, the California Apartment Association actively engaged with numerous rental housing-related bills at the state Capitol. While our collective efforts successfully thwarted many problematic proposals, several bills have been signed into law, poised to influence rental operations in the coming year.
1. Screening Fee Receipts (AB 1765):
Effective: January 1, 2024
Streamlined Processes: Landlords and tenants can now opt for email delivery of screening fee receipts, replacing the previous requirement for hand-delivery or mail. This change, initiated by the Assembly Housing Committee, introduces convenience and efficiency into the screening process.
2. Trespass Letters (SB 602):
Effective: January 1, 2024
Extended Validity: Trespass letters, also known as 602 letters, now remain valid for 12 months, offering property owners a longer timeframe to alert law enforcement about uninhabited properties. This aids in swift removal of trespassers claiming legal occupancy.
3. Security Deposits (AB 12):
Effective: July 1, 2024
Deposit Cap: Security deposits are now capped at one month's rent, regardless of furnishing. Owners of up to two rental properties, comprising no more than four units, have the option to request up to two months' rent. This law seeks to standardize deposit practices and will be in effect from July 1, 2024.
4. Tenancy: Micromobility Devices (SB 712):
Effective: January 1, 2024
Device Storage: Tenants are now allowed to store micromobility devices within rental units, provided the batteries meet safety standards. Landlords can set conditions, such as requiring insurance or external storage if safety standards aren’t met.
5. Just Cause Eviction (SB 567):
Effective: January 1, 2024
Amendment to Tenant Protection Act: Changes to the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 impact just-cause eviction rules in cases where owners need to move into the unit or perform substantial rehab. Specific notices and penalties are outlined for non-compliance.
6. Costa-Hawkins: Permanent Disabilities (AB 1620):
Effective: January 1, 2024
Rent Control Exception:Local jurisdictions with rent control ordinances can permit tenants with permanent disabilities related to mobility to maintain the same rent when moving to a comparable or smaller unit in the same building.
7. Credit History – Governmental Rental Subsidy (SB 267):
Effective: January 1, 2024
Prohibition on Credit History Use: Property owners are now restricted from using credit history as part of the application process for individuals with government rental subsidies, such as Section 8, without providing alternative evidence options.
As the regulatory landscape evolves, it's essential for property owners to stay informed and adapt to these changes seamlessly. At Sol Property Management, we understand that navigating these legal nuances can be overwhelming. If you find yourself struggling to keep up with the intricacies of state and local regulations, don't hesitate to reach out. Our expert team is here to tailor our services to your specific needs. Contact us today to explore our comprehensive menu of services.
