California’s Rental Law Crackdown Is Here - Are You Compliant for 2025?
- Wili Baronet-Israel
- Oct 15
- 3 min read
With sweeping rental reforms taking effect across California in 2025, landlords now face steep fines, lawsuits, and lost income if they’re not fully compliant.
At Coastal Vacation Estates, led by Willie Baronet, we help landlords stay ahead of every legal change — protecting your property, profits, and peace of mind.
1. Eviction Procedures (SB 567 & AB 1482): Step-by-Step, Notices & Pitfalls
California’s updated eviction laws under SB 567 impose stricter rules for no-fault evictions, such as owner move-ins or major renovations. Landlords must clearly state and prove their reasons and provide enhanced relocation assistance to tenants.
AB 1482, California’s long-standing Just-Cause & Rent Cap Law, remains in full force:
Rent increases capped at 5% + local inflation, never exceeding 10%.
Just cause required for evictions after 12+ months of tenancy.(Valid reasons: nonpayment, lease violation, owner move-in, substantial rehab, or legal orders.)
Common Pitfalls for Landlords
Miscalculating allowable rent increases.
Failing to provide proper notice or relocation fees in no-fault evictions.
Misusing “at-fault” evictions to bypass just-cause limits.
💡 Compliance Tip: Always verify local city or county ordinances (like L.A. Rent Stabilization) that may impose stricter standards.
2. Security Deposit Regulations — AB 2801 & AB 12 (2025 Updates)
Two key laws- AB 12 (2024) and AB 2801 (2025)- completely reshape how landlords manage security deposits in California.
AB 12: Limits deposits to one month’s rent for unfurnished units.
AB 2801: Effective April 1- July 1, 2025, requires photo documentation and stricter refund procedures.
What’s Required Under California Rental Laws 2025
Photos at three stages:
1. Before move-in
2. After move-out (before repairs)
3. After cleaning/repairs
Written pre-move-out inspection offer to tenants.
Itemized statement with receipts & photos within 21 days of move-out.
Automatic cleaning fees now prohibited.
Risks of Non-Compliance
Forfeiture of all deposit rights.
Tenant lawsuits for double the deposit, plus damages and attorney’s fees.
Possible court penalties for violations.
3. Balcony & Deck Safety- SB 326, SB 721, and AB 2579 Extension
Both condominiums and multifamily apartments must complete Exterior Elevated Element (EEE) inspections — including balconies, decks, and stairways — by January 1, 2026.
Key Requirements for Landlords
SB 326 (Condos): Applies to HOAs with 3+ units; inspections every 9 years.
SB 721 (Apartments): Applies to multi-unit buildings; inspections every 6 years.
AB 2579: Extended the first inspection deadline to January 1, 2026.
Repair & Reporting Rules
If hazards are found:
Notify HOA or local authority within 15 days.
SB 721: 120 days to obtain permit + 120 days for non-emergency repairs.
SB 326: Immediate preventive measures, report shared with board and owners within 15 days.
Summary: Initial inspections must be completed by Jan 1, 2026, then repeated every 6–9 years depending on property type.
4. Tenant Screening & Fair Housing — AB 2493
Effective January 1, 2025, AB 2493 redefines tenant screening procedures for California landlords.
What’s New
Screening fees allowed only if applications are processed in order received.
The first qualified applicant must be approved or refunded.
Screening criteria must be written and disclosed to all applicants.
Fair Housing Best Practices
Keep all screening objective and consistent.
Avoid questions about race, religion, family status, or other protected classes.
Provide written reasons for disqualification and refund fees if you skip a qualified applicant.
💡 Pro Tip: Document everything — a clear paper trail helps defend against discrimination claims.
🏠 Why You Need a Professional Property Manager
With new California rental laws in 2025, one small oversight could cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Willie Baronet and his team at Coastal Vacation Estates handle every compliance detail — from legal notices to inspections — so your investment stays profitable, protected, and stress-free.
✅ What Coastal Vacation Estates Delivers
Expert legal notice & eviction handling
Photo-documented deposit management systems
Coordination of balcony & deck inspections
Fair Housing–compliant tenant screening
24/7 property care for luxury homes
Over 20 years of Southern California property management expertise
Stay Compliant, Stay Protected
Protect your property — and your peace of mind.
📞 Call Willie Baronet and Coastal Vacation Estates today to schedule your Free 2025 Compliance Review for your Manhattan Beach or Hermosa Beach property.
