What is the law regarding rent increases?
In California, state law generally governs the relationship between a landlord and tenant. According to California’s Tenant Protection Act, landlords may only increase rent if given proper notice. The law requires that tenants be notified in writing at least 60 days prior to the increased rent coming into effect, unless the rental agreement stipulates otherwise. Additionally, landlords must provide tenants with a valid reason for the rent increase. Such reasons can include a change in operating costs, improvements to the property, or market value adjustments. Furthermore, landlords are legally prohibited from increasing rent due to personal bias against a tenant, such as ethnicity or religion. Although the tenant is not obligated to pay the increased rent, failure to do so could lead to the termination of the lease and possible eviction. Tenants who believe their rent has been raised unreasonably can file a complaint with the Department of Consumer Affairs. In these instances, the department will investigate whether the landlord is in violation of the law, and could levy fines or other punishments if they are found to be in the wrong. In summary, landlords in California are legally required to give tenants proper notice and a valid reason before increasing rent. Tenants who feel their rent has been raised unfairly can file a complaint with the Department of Consumer Affairs.
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