San Francisco, CA Rental Property Rules: No-Fault Evictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Code section
- Admin Code 37.9(a)(8)-(14)
- Enacted
- 1979 (Chapter 37)
- Re-rental restriction
- One year at original rent
- Treble damages
- Triple actual rent loss
Summary
San Francisco's Rent Ordinance lists a narrow set of no-fault eviction reasons including owner move-in, Ellis Act withdrawal, capital improvements, and substantial rehabilitation. Each category triggers relocation payments and strict noticing rules under Chapter 37.
1946.2. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, after a tenant has continuously and lawfully occupied a residential real property for 12 months, the owner of the residential real property shall not terminate a tenancy without just cause, which shall be stated in the written notice to terminate tenancy... (b) (2) No-fault just cause, which means any of the following: (A) (i) Intent to occupy the residential real property by the owner or the owner's spouse, domestic partner, children, grandchildren, parents, or grandparents for a minimum of 12 continuous months... (B) Withdrawal of the residential real property from the rental market. (C) An order issued by a government agency or court... (D) (i) Intent to demolish or to substantially remodel.
Full Breakdown
Administrative Code Chapter 37.9(a)(8)-(14), the heart of the 1979 Rent Ordinance, lists the only no-fault grounds landlords may invoke against rent-controlled tenants. These include owner or relative move-in, demolition, Ellis Act removal, capital improvements requiring vacancy, substantial rehabilitation, lead remediation, and condo conversion. Each category requires a specific notice form filed with the Rent Board, mandatory relocation payments under Section 37.9C, and a one-year prohibition on re-renting at higher rates. Owner move-in evictions face additional protections for elderly, disabled, and long-term tenants who can claim absolute defenses if the unit suits the owner's needs equally.
Violations & Fines
Wrongful no-fault evictions trigger treble damages, attorney's fees, statutory penalties up to $50,000, and Rent Board orders restoring tenancy at original rents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are valid no-fault reasons to evict in San Francisco?
Can I challenge an owner move-in eviction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Francisco
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