New Requirements for California Housing Providers in 2026

January 2nd, 2026
Contributor: Scott A. Freedman

As always, we begin this New Year with two things: 1) well wishes for the New Year, to all our clients, colleagues and friends; and 2) a laundry list of new laws for housing providers to be aware of. Below is a brief snapshot of some key changes to be aware of:

  1. AB 414 – sets forth new rules trying to modernize the handling of security deposit refunds. Of note, the refunds can now be issued electronically. And, the parties can agree in the rental agreement about how, and to whom, refunds are to be issued. This may help avoid disagreements down the road, as roommates come and go over time;
  2. AB 624 – for new and renewed rental agreements, this bill expands the basic minimum requirements for what is a ‘habitable’ premises, to require that the unit have both a working refrigerator and stove. The rules also require timely repair and replacement. And, they also permit the parties to agree that a tenant may provide his/her/their own refrigerator;
  3. AB 246 – provides temporary relief for tenants in unlawful detainer actions based upon the non-payment of rent, but only if the tenant’s inability to pay was based on a corresponding delay in receipt of the tenant’s social security benefits through no fault of their own;
  4. SB 610 – clarifies and expands the rights of tenants who are displaced by disaster/fire/etc., and the corresponding obligations of the property owners in those same situations. Key provisions cover how hazardous materials are to be dealt with, when and if rent can be collected, and what obligations exist (and don’t) for restoration of the damaged premises; and
  5. AB 1414 – prohibits a housing provider from requiring an occupant to use a particular internet service provider.

Our team is here to provide guidance on these changes, and help navigate their impact on landlord-tenant relationships in 2026. Please feel free to contact us at your convenience to request a consultation.

Neither this website nor this post are intended to create an attorney-client relationship.

Categories: Landlord/Tenant Issues