California Rent Control in 2025: AB 1482 + SB 567, Explained for Owners

California Rent Control (AB 1482) & Just‑Cause (SB 567): A 2025 Owner’s Guide

Understand the 5% + CPI rent cap, 10% maximum, key exemptions, and new documentation standards for owner move‑in and remodel notices.

The framework you’re operating in

California’s AB 1482 set a statewide rent cap and just‑cause eviction rules for covered units through 2030. While exemptions exist (e.g., new construction within 15 years, many SFRs/condos with proper notices), units aging into the 15‑year mark roll into coverage, catching some owners by surprise.

SB 567 (effective 2024) tightens enforcement around no‑fault evictions—particularly substantial remodel and owner move‑ins—requiring stronger evidence, permit copies, and re‑offer requirements if work doesn’t commence. This is where many notices fail.

For housing‑choice voucher tenancies and other regulated contexts, agencies reiterate that AB 1482 caps still apply where the law says they do. Build your processes to comply across tenancy types.

Practical scenarios (and how to avoid mistakes)

• Raising rent 8% on a 2010 mid‑rise in LA: Check AB 1482 (5% + CPI, max 10%) and local caps. If the local ordinance is lower, the stricter rule controls. Issue notices with the correct calculation basis and effective dates.

• Owner move‑in for a duplex unit: SB 567 expects good‑faith, 12‑month occupancy, prompt possession, and limits on re‑renting if you don’t move in. Get your affidavit, timeline, and intent squared away before serving.

• Substantial remodel to abate hazards: Include permits (or a contractor agreement if no permit is required for abatement) and detail scope/timing. If work stalls, be prepared to re‑offer the unit at prior terms.

  
  

Owner takeaways that move the needle

• Compliance ROI: Clean notices and accurate caps reduce disputes, legal bills, and downtime—often yielding a better effective rent than aggressive increases that get challenged.

• Aging‑into‑coverage watchlist: Track property ages; a 2009 building becomes covered in 2025 under the 15‑year rule. Update your exemption disclosures and leasing packets proactively.

• Policy cadence: Expect annual CPI updates that shift your allowable cap on a fixed schedule (often Aug 1 for regional CPI references). Calendar these so increases don’t cross the line.

  
  

  Pro tip: Train site teams on the difference between state vs. local law—the strictest standard wins. Keep a one‑page reference in the leasing office.

  
  

Sources:

• Rent Stabilization At-A-Glance (AB 1482 & SB 567) – ABAG

• Assembly Bill 1482 – Statewide Rent Cap Details (SHRA)

• California Tenants’ and Landlords’ Rights Guide (CA DRE)