Rent Control: Berkeley vs Hayward
How do rent control rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Hayward, CA?
Berkeley and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
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 →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Hayward Residential Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RRSO) caps annual increases at 5% for covered units. State AB 1482 Tenant Protection Act provides just-cause and rent caps for non-RRSO units.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Adopted | 1980 (pre-Costa-Hawkins) | - |
| 2024 AGA | 2.3% | - |
| Coverage | Pre-June 1980 multifamily | - |
| Just cause | Citywide all units | Both laws require |
| Enforcement | Rent Stabilization Board | - |
| RRSO cap | - | 5% annual |
| AB 1482 cap | - | 5% + CPI, 10% max |
| RRSO coverage | - | Pre-July 1979 units |
| Relocation | - | Required no-fault RRSO |
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.
Hayward FAQ
Does Hayward rent control cover my building?
RRSO covers most pre-July 1979 multi-unit buildings; single-family homes and newer buildings fall under AB 1482 state law.
How much can my rent go up each year?
Covered units see 5% under RRSO; AB 1482 units see 5% plus CPI with a 10% annual hard cap.
Compare other topics
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