California tenant rights 2026: the essential summary

The seven rights you have

Rent cap. AB 1482 limits annual rent increases to 5% + CPI (currently ~8-9%), max 10%. Most rentals are covered.
Just-cause eviction. After 12 months in the unit, the landlord needs "just cause" to terminate. No-cause notices require relocation assistance.
Security deposit cap. One month's rent maximum (two months for small landlords). 21-day return window with itemized statement.
Right to privacy. Landlord must give 24-hour written notice before entry except for emergencies. Repeat violations are harassment.
Habitable unit. Heat, hot water, working plumbing, weatherproof, structurally sound, free of vermin. Landlord must fix within a reasonable time after written notice.
No retaliation. If you reported a habitability issue or organized with other tenants, the landlord cannot raise rent or terminate within 180 days.
Discrimination protection. Fair Housing Act + California's stricter protections (source of income, immigration status, etc.).

State law is the floor. Cities can layer on stricter rules:

Los Angeles: RSO covers most pre-1978 buildings with tighter caps + just-cause.
San Francisco: Rent control + Costa-Hawkins exemptions; intricate.
Oakland, Berkeley: Strong rent boards.
San Jose: Apartment Rent Ordinance covers ~85% of multifamily.
Santa Monica, West Hollywood: Strong tenant protections.
OC cities: Generally rely on state law only. AB 1482 applies broadly.

Check your city's rent stabilization office page before assuming anything.

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