Just Cause Eviction: Berkeley vs Sunol
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Sunol, CA?
Sunol has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
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 →Sunol, CA
Alameda County
Alameda County unincorporated areas are covered by AB 1482 just cause eviction rules requiring landlords to cite a specific lawful reason for terminating tenancies over 12 months.
View full Sunol rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Sunol |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Law | - | AB 1482 just cause protection |
| Threshold | - | 12 months continuous tenancy |
| No-fault Relocation | - | One months rent assistance required |
| Help | - | Bay Area Legal Aid (510) 663-4744 |
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.
Sunol FAQ
Can my landlord evict me without cause?
Only during the first 12 months of tenancy. After that, AB 1482 requires a specific at-fault or no-fault just cause reason in writing.
What relocation assistance do I get for a no-fault eviction?
AB 1482 requires landlords to pay relocation assistance equal to one months rent or waive the final months rent for no-fault terminations.
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