
In 2025, California is making laws to further strengthen renters’ rights and improve housing fairness across the state. As living costs rise, lawmakers are stepping up with new legislation helping renters, promoting transparency, and encouraging more affordable housing solutions.
These changes reflect a growing commitment to support renters while creating clear guidelines for property owners. The new laws aim to build a more balanced and accessible rental market.
Understanding these updates is important whether you are renting a home or managing a property. Let us explore the most impactful changes to California rental laws this year.
Key 2025 Rental Laws in California
1. Enhanced Security Deposit Transparency (AB 2801)
To address the disputes over security deposits, AB 2801 requires property owners to document the condition of a rental unit before renters move in and after they move out, using time-stamped photographs.
Here is how it works:
- Before you move in: Property owners must take photos of the unit to establish the condition.
- When you move out: Photos must be taken again before any cleaning or repairs are done.
- After repairs and cleaning: The property owner must take another set of photos to show the final condition.
This new law, which will apply starting July 1, 2025, ensures that renters have clear evidence of the condition of the unit both at move-in and move-out. If there are any deductions from the security deposit, property owners must explain and provide photo evidence, giving renters a much-needed layer of protection.
California renters’ rights are further strengthened by making the rental process more transparent and giving residents valid proof of any claims made against their deposit.
2. Rent Reporting to Help Build Credit (AB 2747)
AB 2747 requires property owners to offer renters the option to report on-time rental payments to at least one nationwide consumer credit reporting agency. This will help renters build credit based on their rental payment history, a benefit that was previously only available to those in subsidized affordable housing.
For new leases signed after April 1, 2025, the option must be presented when signing, and renters must be reminded once annually thereafter. If residents take advantage of this, they may incur a fee (up to $10 per month) to cover the costs associated with reporting to the credit bureaus.
This law helps improve credit scores and, ultimately, the ability to qualify for loans or purchase a home. By incorporating California rent law protections, this law gives renters greater financial power and opportunity.
3. Protection for Domestic Violence Victims (SB 1051)
SB 1051 brings protection for victims of domestic violence. This law allows renters who are survivors of domestic abuse to request lock changes for their rental units. Property owners must comply with this request within 24 hours and cover the cost if the resident provides supporting documentation of the abuse.
If the property owner is unable to replace the locks within the specified timeframe, the renter can replace the locks themselves and must be reimbursed within 21 days. This protection ensures that survivors of domestic violence can make necessary changes quickly to ensure their safety.
4. Lower Rent Hikes for Affordable Housing (AB 846)
Rising rents in California concern many renters, especially those in affordable housing. AB 846 addresses this issue by limiting rent increases for state-funded affordable housing units. Starting from June 2025, rent increases for these units will be capped at 5% plus the change in the consumer price index (CPI) or 10%, whichever is lower.
This law ensures that rent in affordable housing remains within reach for low-income renters, which is especially important in California’s volatile rental market. California rent increase laws are designed to provide some stability for renters struggling with the rising living costs in the state.
5. More Time for Eviction Defenses (AB 2347)
AB 2347 extends the time renters have to respond to an eviction notice for non-payment. Renters now have 10 court days (instead of 5) to respond to the eviction filing. Additionally, this law clarifies the timeline for filing motions to strike complaints, giving renters more time to prepare their defense.
This extended timeline helps prevent default eviction, which happens when renters fail to respond on time, even if the property owner’s case is invalid.
Smarter Way to Rent in 2025 | BFPM
At BFPM Inc., we believe that informed renters build stronger communities. The new renter-based laws in 2025 are a significant step toward a more transparent and fair rental experience across California. While challenges in the housing market remain, these new California rental laws signal meaningful progress. As your trusted property management partner, BFPM Inc. is committed to staying up to date with all regulatory changes and helping both renters and property owners navigate them with clarity and confidence.
We encourage all California renters to stay informed about their rights. With all laws in place and a dedicated team like BFPM Inc. on your side, your rental journey can be more secure, fair, and future-focused.
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