How Much Can a Landlord Raise Rent in the Bay Area? 2026

1. Single-Family Homes & Condos

• AB 1482 exemption: Generally exempt from state rent caps if the owner is an individual (not a corporation, REIT, or LLC with corporate members) and proper written notice was given.
• The "notice trap": If you fail to include the specific statutory exemption language in your lease or as a separate notice, the property loses its exemption — even if you're an individual owner.
• Local rules: Even if exempt from state law, your property may still be subject to local "just cause" eviction protections.
  

2. Apartment Complexes (Multi-Family)

• Most likely covered: Large multi-family buildings are the most likely to fall under local rent control or AB 1482.
• Age matters: Local rent control often applies only to buildings built before a certain year (e.g., pre-1979 in San Francisco). Newer buildings over 15 years old are likely covered by AB 1482.

Important Rules to Remember

• Notice requirements: Generally, a 30-day notice is required for increases of 10% or less, and a 90-day notice for any increase exceeding 10%.
• Fremont special notice: Fremont's Rent Review Program applies to all residential rentals, including single-family homes. You must include the city's mandatory Rent Review Noticing Form with any increase.
• Local overrides: If your property is covered by a local rent control ordinance, follow the local limit; the statewide 8.8% cap only applies where no stricter local rule exists.