Users' questions

Can a landlord impose a 50 percent rent increase?

Can a landlord impose a 50 percent rent increase?

And at that point, a landlord can impose the kind of rent increase you’re referring to — a 25 percent, a 50 percent rent increase on a tenant. That is allowed under California law. Many people who call our hotline are really unaware of that.

What do you need to know about renters rights?

Receipts: Get and keep receipts for all rent payments. Take photos of checks or account transfer confirmations. This is especially important if you pay rent in cash. Insurance: Get renters insurance to protect your personal belongings from theft or damage.

What should a tenant expect from a landlord?

If it’s a habitability issue, tenants should expect a quicker response. Landlords should keep their tenants informed about the progress they are making to address the concerns. Usually, renters pay a security deposit to the landlord to protect against damage that could happen to the property.

Can a landlord raise the rent in a non rent controlled area?

Even in non-rent-controlled areas, landlords do have limitations on how and when they can raise the rent, Emanuel noted. Just as you’re tied down by your lease, so is your landlord.

Can a landlord be held responsible for a retroactive rent increase?

The short answer is no. In most cases, if a landlord has slapped a tenant with a retroactive rent increase, he was negligent in letting the tenant know about the increase at the appropriate time. The renter can’t be held responsible for a rent increase he or she genuinely didn’t know about.

And at that point, a landlord can impose the kind of rent increase you’re referring to — a 25 percent, a 50 percent rent increase on a tenant. That is allowed under California law. Many people who call our hotline are really unaware of that.

How long does it take for rent to go up?

For example, if you’ve signed a one-year contract, it’ll be a year before rent can go up, or two years if you’ve signed a two-year lease (which is why signing a lease for two years or longer is wise, to keep the rent down). Search thousands of rental listings at your finger-tips. Where are you moving?

Even in non-rent-controlled areas, landlords do have limitations on how and when they can raise the rent, Emanuel noted. Just as you’re tied down by your lease, so is your landlord.