Consumer alert issued regarding new limits on rent hikes

CALIFORNIA – California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a consumer alert, October 11, regarding new legal limits on rent hikes.

The new limit under the Tenant Protection Act (TPA) says most landlords cannot raise rent more than 10% total or 5% plus the percentage change in the cost of living — whichever is lower — over a 12-month period.

A second consumer alert summarizes local rent control or rent stabilization laws throughout California often based on changes in the Consumer Price Index. If Californians live in a city or county with stronger rent protections than the TPA, the local law applies.

TPA rent-increase caps took effect August 1, 2024

The new limit on rent increases took effect on August 1, 2024, and will remain in effect through July 31, 2025, when a new rent hike limit will take effect.

The TPA rent-increase caps apply to most rental housing in California that is more than 15 years old, including single-family homes and condos owned by corporations, mobile homes rented from mobile home park management, and housing rented by Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher recipients.

Californians who are facing eviction

Bonta’s office says Californians who are facing eviction or believe their landlord has violated their tenant rights should seek legal help immediately.

They say if a renter cannot afford a lawyer, the tenant may qualify for free or low-cost legal aid. To find a legal aid office, visit lawhelpca.org and click on the “Find Legal Help” tab.

If a renter does not qualify for legal aid and needs help finding a lawyer, they can visit the California State Bar webpage to find a local certified lawyer referral service, or visit the California Courts’ webpage for tenants facing evictions.

For more information visit https://oag.ca.gov/consumers/general/landlord-tenant-issues#guide-tenants