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πŸ”‘ Rental Property Rules/Rent Control

Rent Control: Berkeley vs Sunol

How do rent control rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Sunol, CA?

Sunol has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.

Berkeley, CA

Alameda County

Heavy Restrictions

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 β†’

Sunol, CA

Alameda County

Some Restrictions

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 Sunol rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactBerkeleySunol
Adopted1980 (pre-Costa-Hawkins)-
2024 AGA2.3%-
CoveragePre-June 1980 multifamily-
Just causeCitywide all units-
EnforcementRent 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.

Sunol 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.

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