California has long been at the forefront of tenant protection laws, and in 2025, renters can expect further developments aimed at ensuring fair housing practices and preventing excessive rent hikes.
With the ongoing housing crisis and rising costs of living, understanding these legal protections is crucial for tenants navigating the rental market. Here’s what renters need to know about California rent increase laws in 2025.
Statewide Rent Control Under AB 1482
One of the most significant pieces of legislation governing rent increases in California is the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482). This law imposes rent caps on most rental properties, limiting annual rent increases to 5% plus the local rate of inflation, with a maximum total increase of 10% per year. In 2025, this law remains in effect, meaning landlords cannot raise rent beyond these limits unless the property is exempt.
Exemptions to AB 1482 Rent Caps
While AB 1482 applies to most rental units, some properties are exempt, including:
- Single-family homes and condos not owned by corporations, REITs, or LLCs with multiple members
- Buildings constructed within the past 15 years
- Some affordable housing units
- Owner-occupied duplexes
Renters in exempt properties should still check their local ordinances, as cities and counties may have stricter rent control measures.
Local Rent Control Laws in 2025
Many California cities have their own rent control regulations that go beyond AB 1482. For example:
- Los Angeles: Rent increases in rent-controlled units are set by the Los Angeles Rent Stabilization Ordinance (LARSO) and vary each year. Due to past rent freezes, landlords may seek higher increases in 2025.
- San Francisco: The Rent Ordinance continues to regulate pre-1979 units, restricting rent hikes to the annual allowable percentage set by the city.
- Oakland, Berkeley, and Santa Monica: These cities maintain strong rent control policies, with strict limits on how much landlords can increase rent annually.
Renters should check their local rent control board for updates on rent increases in their area.
Just Cause Evictions and Tenant Protections
Under AB 1482, landlords cannot evict tenants without a valid reason, known as just cause. In 2025, this protection will remain in place and cover tenants who have lived in their rental unit for at least 12 months. Just cause for eviction includes:
- At-fault reasons: Non-payment of rent, lease violations, criminal activity
- No-fault reasons: Owner move-in, withdrawal of the rental unit from the market, major renovations
If a landlord issues a no-fault eviction, they must provide relocation assistance equal to one month’s rent.
Fair Housing Laws and Rent Discrimination
The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the federal Fair Housing Act prohibit landlords from discriminating against tenants based on:
- Race, color, religion, sex, national origin
- Disability or family status
- Source of income (including Section 8 vouchers)
- Age, sexual orientation, or gender identity
In 2025, these protections continue to ensure equal housing opportunities for all renters. Any tenant facing discrimination can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD).
Additional Protections for Low-Income Renters
California continues to expand rental assistance programs to support low-income renters. Some key programs include:
- California COVID-19 Rent Relief (for remaining pandemic-related debts)
- Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
- State and local emergency rental assistance funds
Low-income tenants should check with local housing agencies for available assistance.
What Tenants Should Do if They Receive an Unlawful Rent Increase
If a landlord imposes a rent increase that violates state or local rent control laws, tenants should:
- Verify the legality – Check AB 1482 and local rent control ordinances.
- Communicate with the landlord – Provide written notice disputing the increase.
- File a complaint – Contact the local rent board or housing authority.
- Seek legal help – Organizations like Tenants Together and Legal Aid offer assistance.
Conclusion
California’s rent increase laws in 2025 continue to provide critical protections for tenants, ensuring that rent hikes remain within legal limits and that fair housing practices are upheld. Renters should stay informed about their rights, check local regulations, and take action if they experience unfair rent increases. With ongoing efforts to expand tenant protections, California remains committed to balancing the needs of both renters and landlords in an ever-evolving housing market.
