California Landlord Guide
Can I Increase Rent in California?
Yes — but California law caps how much. Here’s exactly what you need to know, and a free calculator to find your limit.
Quick Answer
Under AB 1482 (Tenant Protection Act), most California landlords can increase rent by the lesser of 10% or 5% + local CPI per year. In 2026, that means caps ranging from 6.3% (San Francisco) to 8.8% (San Diego) depending on your region. Some cities have local rent control with stricter limits.
2026 Rent Cap Rates by Region
| Region | CPI Rate | Max Increase | On $2,000 Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sacramento | 2.6% | 7.6% | $152/mo |
| San Francisco | 1.3% | 6.3% | $126/mo |
| Los Angeles | 3.3% | 8.3% | $166/mo |
| San Diego | 3.8% | 8.8% | $176/mo |
| Riverside / Inland Empire | 3.1% | 8.1% | $162/mo |
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Who Is Exempt from AB 1482?
Not all properties are covered. These are exempt from statewide rent caps:
- Single-family homes not owned by corporations or REITs (written notice required)
- Buildings less than 15 years old (rolling exemption based on certificate of occupancy)
- Owner-occupied duplexes
- Government-subsidized housing (Section 8, public housing)
Important: Even exempt properties may be subject to local rent control. Cities like San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Mountain View have their own caps that can be stricter than AB 1482.
How to Properly Increase Rent
- Calculate your maximum using the AB 1482 calculator
- Check local ordinances — your city may have a lower cap
- Provide proper written notice: 30 days for increases under 10%, 90 days for 10%+
- Verify your AB 1482 disclosure is in the lease (required even for exempt properties)
- Document everything — keep copies of the notice and delivery method
What Happens If You Exceed the Cap?
Exceeding the AB 1482 cap has real consequences:
- The excess amount is void and must be refunded
- Tenants can file complaints with the California Attorney General
- Tenants can pursue civil lawsuits for damages + attorney’s fees
- Local rent boards can impose additional penalties
Estimated exposure for a violation: $500 – $19,507 depending on severity and jurisdiction.
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Calculate Your Rent Cap →Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.