As of January 1, 2025, several new laws have taken effect in California that impact both landlords and tenants. Whether you own rental property or are a tenant yourself, these changes could affect you. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new and what it means for you.
Credit Reporting
One significant change is that landlords must now offer tenants the option to report their positive rental payment history to at least one nationwide credit reporting agency. This new requirement is designed to help tenants build their credit profiles by demonstrating responsible payment behavior. However, private landlords may have exceptions under the Tenant Protection Act.
Elimination of Junk Fees
Tenants will now be protected from hidden or unnecessary costs, commonly referred to as “junk fees.” These include charges for paying rent by personal check or excessive service fees unrelated to rent. The goal is to ensure transparency and prevent landlords from adding unexpected financial burdens on tenants.
Enhanced Protection for Domestic Violence Survivors
A crucial new law provides immediate security for victims of domestic violence. Tenants who are victims of abuse can now request a lock change, and landlords must comply within 24 hours of receiving the request. This measure helps ensure that survivors can secure their homes without unnecessary delays.
Changes to the Eviction Process
The eviction process in California has been adjusted to provide tenants with additional time to respond to legal proceedings. Tenants now have 10 days, rather than five, to file an answer to an unlawful detainer complaint. On the other hand, the law also shortens the time frame for hearings on specific motions that some tenants’ attorneys have historically used to delay evictions for up to 35 additional days. This change balances tenant protections while ensuring that landlords can proceed with necessary legal actions more efficiently.
Mandatory Before and After Photos
Landlords are now required to take photos of rental units both before a tenant moves in and after they move out. This requirement is intended to provide clear documentation of the unit’s condition, helping to prevent disputes over security deposit deductions and potential damage claims.
What This Means for You
If you’re a landlord, it’s essential to update your rental policies and procedures to comply with these new laws. Providing tenants with the option for credit reporting, eliminating unnecessary fees, and documenting rental unit conditions will help you stay in compliance and maintain good relationships with tenants.
For tenants, these changes provide added protections, more time in eviction proceedings, and the ability to build credit through rent payments. If you have any questions about how these laws affect your rental agreement, consider consulting a real estate attorney or property management professional.
Stay informed and prepared as these new regulations take effect in 2025 to ensure a smooth rental experience for both landlords and tenants.