As of October 1, 2025, a new law (AB 121) gives tenants additional rights. Here are some important rules it includes:
Rule 1 – No More Hidden Fees
You won’t be surprised by extra fees popping up every month.
- One Clear Price: Your landlord must now show your rent as one single, total number on your lease and in ads.
- All Fees Included: This single number must have all of the required monthly costs. The total rent the landlord charges you cannot be higher than that one number.
Rule 2 – You Get to Pay for Free
You must be able to pay your rent without spending extra money just on the payment itself.
- Free Way to Pay: Your landlord must offer at least one way to pay your rent (like a check or money order) that does not charge you an extra fee and does not require you to give your bank account information.
- Online Fee Limit: If you pay rent using a website or app, the landlord can only charge you a fee that is the exact same price the website charges them—no extra fees for profit!
Rule 3 – Application Fees Must Be Fair
You’re protected from losing money on applications if the property manager messes up or doesn't process your paperwork.
- You’re Entitled to a Refund:
- If the property manager rents the unit to someone else instead of finishing your application, or
- If the property manager took your money but didn’t actually run the check they were supposed to.
- No Fees for Children: Landlords cannot charge any application or background check fees for kids (minors) who will be living in the home or apartment.
Protecting Your Family
If a landlord breaks any of these rules, you can take them to court. A judge can order the landlord to pay back money and even pay a penalty of up to $250 for each time they cheated or misled you.
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