California’s 2026 rent‑increase rules are shaped by a statewide cap under AB 1482, plus local rent‑control laws in cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, and others.
Most tenants in older multi‑unit buildings enjoy protection from “shock” hikes and must be given specific written notice before any increase.
Statewide rent‑increase cap (AB 1482)
- Max increase: For covered units, landlords generally cannot raise rent by more than 5% plus local CPI in a 12‑month period, up to a maximum of 10%.
- 2025–26 cap: For the period August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026, the statewide max is about 6.3% in many counties (5% + 1.3% CPI), though exact percentages vary by region.
- Frequency: Only one rent increase is allowed per 12‑month cycle under AB 1482.
Notice requirements
- Under 10% increase: Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before the new rent takes effect.
- 10% or more increase: For hikes at or above 10% in a 12‑month window, 90 days’ written notice is required.
- What the notice must include: The new rent amount, dollar increase, effective date, tenant name, and rental address; verbal, text, or email alone is not enough.
Local rent‑control cities
In cities with their own rent‑control ordinances (e.g., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, San Diego, and others), local caps can be much lower than the statewide 5% + CPI/10% cap. For example:
- Oakland: Units in the rent‑control program are currently capped at 0.8% for 2025–26.
- Berkeley: The local cap is about 1.0% for the same period.
Lease terms and “no‑raise” periods
- Fixed‑term leases: In most cases, rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease expressly allows it.
- Exemptions: AB 1482 generally does not apply to new buildings (usually under ~15 years old), single‑family homes (unless owned by a corporation or REIT), and some types of owner‑occupied small properties.
What tenants should do in 2026
- Confirm your unit type: Check whether your building is older multi‑unit (likely covered by AB 1482) or exempt (newer, single‑family, etc.).
- Check your city’s rules: If you live in a rent‑control city, look up your local rent‑board cap (e.g., LA‑HCD, SF Rent Board, Oakland Rent Board) to see if your notice is within the allowed percentage.
- Scrutinize every notice: Verify the percentage increase, time period, and notice period; if it violates AB 1482 or local law, you can raise the issue with the local housing authority, rent‑board, or tenant legal‑aid group.
If you tell me which California city you’re in (e.g., L.A., SF, San Diego, etc.), I can give you a tailored breakdown of what the exact 2026 cap and rules mean for your rent.
SOURCES:
- https://alleastbayproperties.com/ab-1482-rent-cap-california-2026/
- https://www.tenantcloud.com/blog/california-rent-increase-laws
