Just Cause Eviction: Berkeley vs Hayward
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Hayward, CA?
Berkeley and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley has one of the oldest just-cause eviction ordinances in the US. Landlords must cite a specific legal reason from BMC Chapter 13.76 to terminate a tenancy, and relocation payments apply for no-fault evictions.
View full Berkeley rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Hayward's Residential Rent Stabilization Ordinance and California AB 1482 require landlords to state an approved just cause to terminate most residential tenancies after 12 months.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Governing law | BMC Chapter 13.76 | - |
| Agency | Berkeley Rent Stabilization Board | - |
| Relocation payment | Required for no-fault evictions | - |
| Filing required | Notice filed with Rent Board | - |
| Phone | (510) 981-7368 | - |
| Tenure trigger | - | 12 months occupancy |
| Relocation | - | One month rent for no-fault |
| State backstop | - | Civil Code 1946.2 |
| Administered by | - | Hayward Rent Review Program |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can my landlord evict me without a reason in Berkeley?
No. Berkeley requires a specific good cause listed in BMC 13.76. Month-to-month tenancies cannot be terminated at will.
Do I get a relocation payment?
Yes, for no-fault evictions like owner move-in or Ellis Act withdrawal. Amounts are set yearly by the Rent Board and are higher for seniors, disabled, and families with minors.
Hayward FAQ
Do single-family rentals qualify?
Many single-family homes are exempt from AB 1482 and the local RRSO if owned by a non-corporate landlord and the tenant received the required exemption notice in the lease.
Is relocation assistance always required?
Relocation assistance is required only for no-fault terminations such as owner move-in, substantial remodel, Ellis Act withdrawal, or government-ordered vacate.
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