California Rent Control: What San Diego Landlords Must Know

Key Takeaways

• Statewide rent control laws in California (AB 1482) apply rent increase limitations to many properties throughout San Diego.
• Rent control laws have certain exceptions for buildings that are less than 15 years old, owner-occupied duplexes, single-family homes not owned by corporations, and certain affordable housing units.
• San Diego landlords must follow both the state rent caps and local tenant protection ordinances.
• Non-compliance can result in legal liability, fines, and tenant lawsuits.
• Successful property owners adapt by combining legal compliance with proactive management strategies.

Introduction

California rent control continues to be a prominent issue in 2025, particularly in San Diego where housing demand and affordability issues continue to influence policy. The understanding of these regulations by landlords is mandatory, not voluntary. Assembly Bill 1482, also known as the Tenant Protection Act, determines the annual rent increase amount for landlords. The rules were established to assist renters in their homes, but they generate more duties for landlords.

This article details the basic principles of California rent control, the distinct implications for San Diego landlords, and effective methods to remain compliant while keeping profitability intact.

Understanding California Rent Control (AB 1482)

The Tenant Protection Act of 2019 implemented rent control for many residential properties throughout California. Units that are eligible to receive benefits can only experience rent increases at the rate of 5% plus the local Consumer Price Index (CPI) or 10%, whichever is lower. The rent limit resets annually and applies to almost all multi-family properties that were built prior to 2005.

In addition to rent caps, AB 1482 restricts evictions. The landlord must have a valid reason to evict a tenant after 12 months of tenancy. The law allows the landlord to remove a tenant for non-payment of rent, lease violation, or when the landlord moves into the rental unit.

Exemptions from Rent Control

Not every property falls under California’s rent control rules. San Diego landlords should understand the importance of these exemptions. These include:

• Single-family homes and condos not owned by corporations, LLCs with corporate members, or REITs.
• Housing units constructed during the last fifteen years (rolling exemption).
• Affordable housing and government-subsidized housing.
• Owner-occupied duplexes where the owner resides in one of the units.

Local San Diego Tenant Protections

AB 1482 sets the statewide framework, but San Diego has its own set of tenant protection laws. Local ordinances improve eviction protections, offer relocation benefits to tenants in specific situations, and give tenants more rights than what is provided by state regulations. For landlords, this means compliance requires awareness of both layers of law.

How Rent Control Impacts San Diego Landlords

Challenges

• The prohibition on rent increases restricts long-term revenue.
• New eviction rules increase the importance of thorough tenant screening.
• Documentation and notice requirements create additional administrative work.

Opportunities

• Stable tenant populations can reduce turnover costs.
• Predictable increases allow for long-term financial planning.
• Competitive positioning: well-managed properties stand out in a regulated market.

Practical Compliance Tips for Landlords

• Track annual CPI updates to calculate correct rent caps.
• Provide all rent increases and lease changes in writing with proper service.
• Screen tenants thoroughly—credit, income, and rental history are vital.
• Maintain properties to justify maximum allowable rent increases.
• Document leases, payments, and communications to prevent disputes.

Balancing Compliance and Profitability

Some landlords are concerned about reduced profits, but many choose to adapt by utilizing rent control compliant strategies. Examples include:

• Renovating units with modern finishes and energy-efficient systems to attract quality tenants willing to pay near the rent ceiling.
• Offering furnished options and flexible leases that appeal to professionals and military tenants.
• Leveraging professional property management services to ensure compliance and maintain strong tenant relationships.

Future Outlook

Lawmakers throughout California maintain ongoing discussions regarding both housing affordability standards and tenant protection measures. San Diego Property Manager's and landlords need to maintain constant awareness about potential changes to rent control laws that could occur. The current laws may undergo modifications in the upcoming legislative session.

FAQs: California Rent Control for San Diego Landlords

Q1: AB 1482 sets which specific limit for San Diego landlords to increase rents?

A: The maximum rent increase is 5% above local CPI or 10%, whichever is lower, once every 12 months.

Q2: Are all properties in San Diego subject to rent control?

A: No. Exemptions exist for single-family homes not owned by corporations, properties built within the last 15 years, and certain affordable housing units.

Q3: What happens if a landlord violates rent control laws?

A: Tenants can file complaints, pursue lawsuits, or seek penalties against landlords who overcharge or evict illegally.

Q4: Can landlords still evict tenants in San Diego?

A: Yes, but they must provide “just cause” reasons such as nonpayment of rent, lease violations, or owner move-in.

Q5: Should landlords hire a property management company to help with compliance?

A: Yes. Professional property managers provide compliance expertise, legal guidance, and operational support.

Conclusion

Rent control laws enacted by California have introduced a major transformation to the rental housing market. Success for San Diego landlords depends on their ability to understand regulations and modify operations while focusing on compliance. Through proactive measures, documentation practices, and collaboration with experienced property managers, landlords can maintain their investment returns while safeguarding their assets.

The Realty Management Group team provides specialized services to help San Diego property owners succeed under changing rental regulations. Our team offers expert services to set accurate prices while maintaining legal compliance and handling tenants in ways that boost ROI while preventing expensive errors.