The California Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482) is a comprehensive law that provides additional protections for tenants throughout the state. This law, which went into effect on January 1, 2020, sets out specific requirements for landlords when it comes to rent increases, evictions, and security deposit requirements. In this blog post, we’ll outline the key elements of the Tenant Protection Act and explain how our law firm can help both landlords and tenants throughout Santa Barbara County understand and comply with the new law.

Restrictions on Rent Increases: The Tenant Protection Act places limits on the amount by which a landlord can increase rent in a given year. The act also requires landlords to provide a 60-day notice for rent increases that exceed a certain percentage. This gives tenants time to prepare for the increase and, if necessary, make arrangements to find alternative housing.
Restrictions on Evictions: The act places limits on the grounds for which a landlord can evict a tenant. For example, a landlord cannot evict a tenant simply because they have failed to pay rent. Instead, the landlord must provide the tenant with a notice to cure the default, giving the tenant an opportunity to cure the breach before being evicted. The act also requires landlords to provide a 60-day notice for no-cause evictions and a 30-day notice for evictions based on breach of lease.
Security Deposit Requirements: The Tenant Protection Act sets out specific requirements for security deposits, including restrictions on the amount of security deposit a landlord can collect from a tenant and requirements for the return of the deposit within a specific timeframe. Landlords must also provide written itemized statements for any deductions made from a security deposit.
Right of Quiet Enjoyment: The act affirms a tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment of their rental unit. This means that landlords cannot interfere with a tenant’s enjoyment of the property, such as by entering the unit without proper notice, disrupting the tenant’s peace and quiet, or making excessive noise.

By understanding the key elements of the Tenant Protection Act, landlords and tenants in Santa Barbara County can ensure they are complying with the law and avoiding potential disputes. However, the law can be complex and difficult to navigate. That’s where our law firm comes in. At Thyne Taylor Fox Howard, LLP, we have extensive experience representing both landlords and tenants in Santa Barbara County and helping them understand and comply with the Tenant Protection Act. Our attorneys can provide guidance on how to comply with the law while still protecting your rights.

In conclusion, the California Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482) provides significant protections for tenants and sets out specific requirements for landlords. Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, it’s important to understand the key elements of the law to ensure you are in compliance. Our law firm, Thyne Taylor Fox Howard, LLP, can help you navigate the complexities of the Tenant Protection Act and ensure you are protected. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.