Rent control rules in South San Francisco, CA β also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances β limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Unincorporated San Mateo County has NO local rent control. State law AB 1482 (Tenant Protection Act, Civil Code Β§1946.2 and Β§1947.12) caps annual rent increases at 5% plus CPI (maximum 10%) for qualifying units. Single-family homes owned by non-corporate owners and buildings under 15 years old are exempt.
San Mateo County has not adopted a local rent stabilization ordinance. Tenants in unincorporated areas (North Fair Oaks, Emerald Hills, West Menlo Park, Montara, Moss Beach, Princeton, El Granada, Loma Mar, La Honda, Pescadero) rely on California Civil Code Β§1947.12 (AB 1482) which limits annual rent increases to the lesser of 5% plus regional CPI or 10% total. San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward CPI applies. Exemptions include: new construction less than 15 years old (rolling), single-family homes and condos not owned by corporations/REITs/LLCs with corporate members (owner must provide written notice of exemption), deed-restricted affordable housing, and owner-occupied duplexes. Landlords may pass through capital improvement costs subject to state limits. Local cities East Palo Alto and Redwood City have their own rent control; county unincorporated areas do not.
Overcharges: tenant entitled to refund of excess rent plus interest. Willful violations: actual damages plus treble damages or $100 minimum, whichever greater, under Civil Code Β§1947.12(h). Attorneys' fees recoverable. Tenants may file civil action in SMC Superior Court.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Mateo County.
See how South San Francisco's rent control rules stack up against other locations.
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