In recent years, landlord-tenant laws in California have been tumultuous, to say the least. However for many seasoned property owners and property managers here, that comes as no surprise. RealWealth lists California as the second least landlord-friendly state in the nation, trailing only New York.
2025 looks to continue that trend, as the state is slated to have a bevy of new laws go live throughout the year that will affect various aspects of your rental business.
Let's take a moment to review the landlord-tenant laws going into place that matter. We've put together this guide for landlords and tenants to reference to find crucial information on their rights and responsibilities under California law in 2025.
Changes to California’s Landlord-Tenant Laws in 2025
California rental laws are known for being very strict on how you can operate a rental property here. The laws typically skew in favor of California's tenants, and the new legislation in 2025 is no different.
One bright note for landlords and the housing market as a whole was California voters electing not to pass Prop 33. This would've allowed city governments to have the power to enact local rent control laws, significantly harming the growth of California's housing market and the availability of affordable housing for all.
However, there are still 4 new laws that landlords and tenants must adapt to. These laws affect security deposits, eviction procedures, the landlord-tenant relationship, and how you prepare your lease agreements.
AB 2347: Extensions on Eviction Notice Response Time
Assembly Bill No. 2347 (AB 2347), effective January 1, 2025, extends the time California tenants have to respond to an eviction complaint from 5 to 10 business days.
This change, aimed at giving tenants protection from unfair eviction, poses several challenges for small landlords. They will face longer wait times before legal resolutions, potentially straining cash flow, especially if tenants have unpaid rent. Tenants may also use the extra time to negotiate, seek legal counsel, or explore alternatives like rental assistance.
Small landlords may struggle with the increased administrative burden, lacking resources to manage extended legal processes. To mitigate delays, landlords are encouraged to start eviction proceedings early, explore pre-litigation solutions, consult with an attorney, or consider hiring a property manager. While the law benefits tenants, small landlords must adjust expectations, invest more time and effort into managing evictions, and prepare for longer, costlier processes.
AB 2801: Security Deposit Documentation and Limits
California's Assembly Bill 2801, set to take effect in 2025, will impact how landlords of residential rental properties handle security deposits. Key changes include restrictions on what deductions can be made, specifically limiting claims to necessary repairs to restore the rental unit to its original condition, excluding ordinary wear and tear. Landlords can no longer charge tenants for professional cleaning unless they meet these criteria.
Tenants will also have the right to request to be present during move-out inspections, and landlords must provide an itemized statement detailing any deductions. Additionally, landlords must supply before-and-after photos of the property if they intend to charge for repairs or cleaning.
Starting April 1, 2025, landlords must photograph the rental unit after the tenant moves out but before any repairs, with additional photo requirements for new tenancies beginning July 1, 2025. If the landlord fails to comply with these security deposit rules, it could result in legal consequences in small claims court.
AB 2747: Credit Reporting When Tenants Pay Rent
California's AB2747, effective April 1, 2025, requires landlords to offer tenants the option to have their rent payments reported to credit bureaus. This law aims to help tenants improve their credit scores by reporting on-time payments of every month's rent.
Key provisions include landlords notifying tenants of the option to enroll, reporting both on-time and late payments, and maintaining accurate payment records. Landlords must also follow state regulations regarding the frequency and format of credit reports.
For rental agreements starting after April 1, 2025, landlords must offer the reporting option at the lease’s inception and annually thereafter. Notifications must include clear instructions and can be delivered by mail or email, with tenants allowed to opt in or out of the service.
SB 611: Miscellaneous Protections for Residential Tenants
Senate Bill 611 (SB611), effective April 1, 2025, introduces key changes for California rental property owners, targeting several "junk fees" and military security deposit charges.
The law prohibits landlords from the following:
Charging fees for delivering any notices to tenants, including past-due rent, eviction, or lease violations.
Fees for tenants paying rent by check, a charge previously used to cover processing costs. However, fees for credit card payments remain permissible.
Additionally, SB611 addresses security deposit practices for military service members, preventing landlords from charging higher deposits due to the risk of lease termination from deployment. If a higher deposit is charged, landlords must provide a written statement and refund the excess amount within six months, provided the tenant is not behind on or withholding rent.
SB611 supplements the California Tenant Protection Act of 2019 and aligns with other laws to limit charges and protect tenants. Non-compliance could result in legal and financial consequences for landlords.
Get the Help You Need for Your Rental Property in 2025
California landlord-tenant law continues to progressively more complex every year, particularly in 2025. If you're a landlord here in Pleasanton, juggling local ordinances, state law, and the nuances of the rental market can feel overwhelming.
That's why we at Advantage Property Management Services are proud to support our clients with the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed here in Pleasanton. We have years of experience on both the property management and investing side to make sure your investment is as profitable as possible.
To start getting the help you need for your Pleasanton rental property, contact us today for a free consultation.
Additional Resources:
California Leasing Laws: FAQs for Pleasanton Landlords
A Legal Guide To Just Cause Evictions For California Landlords
