Rent Control: Berkeley vs Castro Valley
How do rent control rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Castro Valley, CA?
Castro Valley has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley has one of the nation strongest Rent Stabilization Ordinances (adopted 1980) with annual AGA increases, just-cause eviction, and registration; enforced by the elected Rent Stabilization Board.
View full Berkeley rules →Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Alameda County unincorporated areas fall under California AB 1482 statewide rent cap limiting annual increases to 5 percent plus CPI, maximum 10 percent.
View full Castro Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Castro Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Adopted | 1980 (pre-Costa-Hawkins) | - |
| 2024 AGA | 2.3% | - |
| Coverage | Pre-June 1980 multifamily | - |
| Just cause | Citywide all units | - |
| Enforcement | Rent Stabilization Board | - |
| Law | - | AB 1482 statewide rent cap |
| Cap | - | 5 percent plus CPI, max 10 percent |
| Exemptions | - | Units under 15 years, some single-family |
| Help | - | ECHO Fair Housing (510) 581-9380 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Is my apartment rent-controlled?
Multifamily buildings built before June 1980 are fully covered; newer units and single-family homes have just-cause protection only.
How much can my rent go up?
Covered units: 2024 AGA of 2.3 percent. Non-covered units: AB 1482 cap of 5 percent plus local CPI up to 10 percent.
Castro Valley FAQ
How much can my landlord raise rent in Castro Valley?
Under AB 1482, most covered units have annual increases capped at 5 percent plus regional CPI, with a maximum total of 10 percent per year.
Is my single-family rental exempt from AB 1482?
Single-family homes and condos owned by individuals (not corporations) are generally exempt, but only if the landlord provided a written exemption notice to the tenant.
Compare other topics
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