For California landlords, navigating rental laws sometimes feels like learning a second language—only it’s legalese, and there’s no Duolingo for that. But with sweeping updates in 2025, understanding California landlord-tenant law isn’t just recommended, it’s essential.
Whether you’re managing one rental unit or several residential rental properties, staying on top of federal fair housing act protections and California fair housing law can save you from a courtroom appearance or a costly lawsuit.
Let’s break it all down before your rental agreement becomes your most significant liability.
The Evolving Legal Landscape for Housing Providers
California landlords must comply with both federal and state fair housing laws, including the Fair Housing Act, Unruh Civil Rights Act, and Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).
These laws prohibit housing discrimination based on protected characteristics like race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, immigration status, veteran status, mental disability, and medical condition.
When screening prospective tenants or handling complaints, even an alleged discriminatory act can trigger action from the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing—or escalate to federal court.
Landlords are also required to provide reasonable accommodations or modifications for tenants whose major life activities are impacted by a disability.
The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) closely monitors compliance, especially in areas like rental ads and background checks, as part of its mission to ensure fair access to urban development and housing opportunities.
California Tenant Protections in 2025
Rent Increases and Security Deposits
Under the Tenant Protection Act, most residential tenants are protected from excessive rent hikes. Annually, you can’t raise rent more than 10% or 5% plus the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower, without risking violation of local rent control laws or state fair housing laws.
Landlords should also note that the maximum security deposit has been lowered to one month’s rent for both furnished and unfurnished units. Failing to provide proper documentation can lead to legal disputes over withholding rent or the return of the security deposit.
Evictions, Notices, and Fair Procedures
Eviction law now requires more extended eviction notice periods—especially for tenants in a state or federal program or those protected under senior housing, familial status, or other classifications.
A landlord fails in their duty if they do not provide reasonable notice or attempt retaliation—landlords beware, that’s a fast track to lawsuits. Even for unpaid rent, courts are prioritizing fairness over speed, especially in owner-occupied buildings or cities with enhanced local laws.
Complying with Fair Employment and Housing Laws
Fairness doesn’t stop at leasing. The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) ensures both housing and job opportunities are free of discrimination.
This means landlords must uphold equal treatment in mortgage lending, maintenance, and lease enforcement—especially if managing units under federal programs or housing authorities.
Legal Peace of Mind Starts with Fair Housing Compliance
In 2025, being a landlord isn't just about making sure tenants pay rent on time—it's about ensuring they do so without encountering bias, barriers, or alleged discrimination. With fair housing laws tightening across California, the smartest landlords are those who treat compliance not as a burden but as a blueprint for long-term success.
JTS Property Management takes the guesswork out of compliance, helping you protect your investment, avoid legal pitfalls, and maintain strong landlord-tenant relationships.
Let us handle the fine print while you focus on the bottom line—reach out today and turn legal headaches into hassle-free profits.
FAQ
Q: What does the federal Fair Housing Act cover for California landlords?
It prohibits housing discrimination based on protected classes like race, religion, gender, national origin, and familial status. Under federal law and California law, landlords must provide reasonable accommodations and fair housing accommodations to protect the landlord-tenant relationship.
Q: Can I refuse to rent to someone in a federal or state program?
No. California law prohibits discrimination against applicants using income from any state or federal program, helping prevent landlord-tenant issues and promote housing access.
Q: How much can I raise rent legally?
Under the Tenant Protection Act, rent hikes are capped at 5% plus the CPI or 10%, whichever is lower. Stricter local rent control laws may apply. Violations can affect the landlord-tenant relationship and result in penalties under state and federal law.
Q: What are examples of illegal discrimination in housing?
Refusing tenants based on sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, or an applicant's criminal history is illegal discrimination under fair housing laws, and a serious landlord-tenant issue.
Q: Can I require more deposit for tenants with disabilities?
No. Charging extra or denying reasonable modifications violates California fair housing law and federal law, and damages the landlord-tenant relationship.
Additional Resources
New Eviction Laws That Landlords and Tenants Must Know in Fair Oaks, CA
Accessibility Features for Your Fair Oaks Rental Properties: Compliance for Landlords
