California Rent Control Decision Matrix
Use this interactive decision matrix to determine if your California property is subject to rent control regulations under AB 1482. Learn about exemptions, compliance requirements, and what steps you need to take as a landlord to manage your property effectively.
Was the property built in the last 15 years?
Properties built within the last 15 years are exempt from rent control regulations under AB 1482 to encourage new housing development.
For clarity, this question applies to the **oldest structure** on the property, including accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
Relevant Law: AB 1482, Section 1947.12(d)(4).
Example: If the main house was built in 2010 and an ADU was added in 2020, the property is considered “older than 15 years” for this question.
Did you provide notice of exemption?
If the property qualifies for an exemption, landlords must provide written notice to tenants to maintain exemption status.
Relevant Law: AB 1482, Section 1947.12(d)(5).
Example: A single-family home built in 2012, currently occupied, requires notice of exemption provided to the tenants to maintain the exemption status.
Is the property multi-family or single-family?
Multi-family properties contain multiple rental units, such as duplexes or triplexes. A single-family home with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) must be considered a multi-family property for the purposes of this questionnaire.
Relevant Law: AB 1482, Section 1947.12(d)(1).
Example: A standalone home with a detached ADU rented separately is considered a multi-family property.
Does the multi-family property have two units, and does the owner reside in one unit as their primary residence?
Owner-occupied duplexes may qualify for an exemption under AB 1482. To qualify, the owner must live in one unit as their full-time primary residence.
Relevant Law: AB 1482, Section 1947.12(d)(2).
Example: If you live in one unit of a duplex and rent out the other, the rented unit may qualify for an exemption.
Is the other unit rented or vacant?
Vacant units are not subject to rent control. Rented units require notice of exemption to maintain exempt status.
Example: If the second unit is currently vacant, rent control regulations do not apply until it is rented.
Did you provide notice of exemption to the tenant?
Landlords must provide written notice to tenants for rented units to maintain exemption.
Relevant Law: AB 1482, Section 1947.12(d)(5).
Example: A tenant renting the second unit of an owner-occupied duplex must receive written notice of exemption.
What is the ownership type of the single-family property?
Properties owned by a natural person, such as an individual, trust, or LLC with no corporate members, may qualify for exemptions. Properties owned by corporations, LLCs with corporate members, or REITs are subject to rent control.
Relevant Law: AB 1482, Section 1947.12(d)(5).
Example: A single-family home owned by an individual or a family trust may qualify, but if owned by an LLC with corporate members, it does not.
Is the property occupied or vacant currently?
Vacant properties are not subject to rent control regulations. For occupied properties, notice of exemption must be provided.
Example: A vacant single-family home does not require rent control compliance until it is rented.
Result: Rent Controlled
The property falls under California’s rent control regulations. Ensure compliance with applicable laws.
Keeping track of changes in the law and local rent control ordinances can be difficult. Based on your answers, your property is under rent control. However, we can help you navigate these regulations and reduce stress as a landlord. Call Access Asset Management today at (866) 830-4401 for assistance!
Result: Not Rent Controlled
The property is exempt from California’s rent control regulations. Ensure tenants have received written notice of exemption where required.
Congratulations! Your property is not subject to rent control. To ensure compliance and optimize your rental property management, call Access Asset Management today at (866) 830-4401!
