California Attorney General Issues Consumer Advice on Permissible Rent Hikes For Renters

"Rent prices continue to be a top concern for Californians," said Bonta.Photo byJose AlonsoonUnsplash

California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced two consumer alerts aimed at informing tenants and landlords about current legal limits on rent increases. The first alert, titled “Know Your Rights as a California Tenant,” outlines the maximum annual rent increase permitted under the Tenant Protection Act (TPA). According to the TPA, most landlords cannot raise rent by more than 10% or 5% plus the change in the cost of living—whichever is lower—within a 12-month period.

"Rent prices continue to be a top concern for Californians," said Bonta. "The Tenant Protection Act sets a floor, not a ceiling. If your city or county has stronger protections, those laws take precedence."

The new rent increase limits under the TPA took effect on August 1, 2024, and will remain until July 31, 2025. These caps apply to most rental housing over 15 years old, including single-family homes, condos owned by corporations, and mobilehomes.

The second consumer alert summarizes local rent control laws across California, highlighting that local regulations may provide stronger protections than the TPA. To assist residents, the alerts are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Arabic, and Vietnamese.