Understanding California’s Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482): A Guide for East Bay Property Owners and Tenants

California Rent Control and Other Protections

At All East Bay Properties, we are dedicated to fostering transparent and compliant property management practices throughout the vibrant East Bay region. California’s Tenant Protection Act of 2019, known as AB 1482, is a cornerstone of the state’s rental housing framework, balancing tenant protections with landlord responsibilities. Signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on October 8, 2019, and effective from January 1, 2020, this legislation continues to shape the rental landscape in 2025, with provisions extended through January 1, 2030. Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of AB 1482, its key components, and practical guidance for compliance, ensuring both landlords and tenants can navigate the East Bay’s housing market with confidence.

Overview of AB 1482: Purpose and Scope

The Tenant Protection Act of 2019, authored by Assemblymember David Chiu, addresses two critical issues: excessive rent increases and unjust evictions. As California’s first statewide rent control measure, AB 1482 establishes caps on annual rent increases and mandates “just cause” requirements for evictions, offering stability to millions of renters while providing clear guidelines for property owners. The law applies to most multi-family residential properties in California, though exemptions exist for certain property types, particularly those under local rent control ordinances or newer constructions. For East Bay landlords and tenants, understanding AB 1482 is essential to maintaining fair and lawful rental agreements.

Rent Increase Limits: Promoting Predictability

AB 1482 caps annual rent increases at 5% plus the local Consumer Price Index (CPI) for inflation, or 10%, whichever is lower. The CPI, a measure of regional cost-of-living changes, is updated annually by the California Department of Finance. For example, in Alameda and Berkeley jurisdictions, the CPI adjustment for August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026, is 1.3%, resulting in a maximum allowable rent increase of 6.3%. In contrast, Contra Costa County saw a CPI of 3.8% for the prior year, allowing up to 8.8%.

Landlords must provide tenants with written notice of these protections in at least 12-point font upon lease renewal, and tenants cannot waive these rights, as such provisions are void under public policy. For property owners, adhering to these caps not only ensures compliance but also fosters trust and long-term tenant relationships, reducing turnover costs.

Just Cause Eviction Protections: Fairness in Termination

AB 1482 requires landlords to provide a valid “just cause” for evicting tenants who have occupied a unit for 12 months (or 24 months if at least one tenant has resided that long). Just causes fall into two categories:

• At-fault just cause: Includes non-payment of rent, lease violations, nuisance, criminal activity, or refusal to allow lawful landlord entry. Tenants typically receive an opportunity to correct violations before eviction proceedings.
• No-fault just cause: Includes scenarios such as the landlord or their family moving into the unit, substantial renovations, or withdrawing the property from the rental market. In these cases, landlords may be required to provide relocation assistance, equivalent to one month’s rent or a rent waiver.

For East Bay communities, where local rent control laws in cities like Oakland and Berkeley may apply, AB 1482 serves as a baseline for properties not covered by stricter local ordinances. Proper documentation is critical for landlords to demonstrate compliance in case of disputes.

Applicability and Exemptions: Who’s Covered?

AB 1482 applies to most multi-family residential properties constructed more than 15 years prior to the current year (e.g., before 2010 for 2025). However, certain properties are exempt, including:

• Units subject to local rent control ordinances, such as those in Oakland or Berkeley.
• Single-family homes or condominiums owned by individuals (not corporations or trusts), provided tenants receive written notice of the exemption.
• New constructions (built within the last 15 years).
• Subsidized housing, dormitories, or transient accommodations like hotels.

Landlords must clearly communicate exemptions to tenants in writing to avoid inadvertently triggering AB 1482 protections. All East Bay Properties can assist in determining whether your property qualifies, ensuring compliance and clarity.

AB 1482 in 2025: Current Status and Impact

As of September 2025, AB 1482 remains a vital framework without significant legislative changes. The CPI-based rent cap formula continues to provide flexibility while protecting tenants from excessive increases. Recent attempts to impose stricter caps were rejected, maintaining the 5% + CPI structure. Enforcement occurs through state courts, not local agencies, so landlords should be prepared for potential legal scrutiny in disputes. Advocacy groups report that AB 1482 has significantly reduced displacement and homelessness risks for millions of Californians, underscoring its value in high-cost regions like the East Bay.

Practical Tips for Compliance

For landlords:

• Stay Informed: Monitor annual CPI updates from the California Department of Finance to calculate permissible rent increases.
• Document Everything: Maintain clear records of lease agreements, notices, and just cause justifications to support compliance.
• Communicate Clearly: Provide tenants with required notices in the correct format to avoid disputes.

For tenants:

• Know Your Rights: Understand the rent cap and just cause protections, which cannot be waived.
• Verify Exemptions: Confirm whether your rental unit is exempt, as landlords must provide written notice.

Why AB 1482 Matters for the East Bay

In the dynamic East Bay housing market, AB 1482 promotes stability and fairness for both tenants and landlords. By capping rent increases and requiring just cause for evictions, the law reduces uncertainty, fostering stronger community ties and predictable rental income. At All East Bay Properties, we specialize in helping property owners navigate these regulations while maintaining positive tenant relationships. Whether you’re a landlord seeking compliance guidance or a tenant exploring your rights, our team is here to support you.

For more information or personalized assistance, contact All East Bay Properties today. Let’s build a thriving, compliant rental community together.

References: This post is informed by California legislative texts and reputable housing resources. For the full text of AB 1482, visit leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. Consult a legal professional for advice tailored to your circumstances.