January: New Year Reminder — Notice of the Existence of the Charter

Tip of the Month
A woman smiles while handing a document to someone across a desk. Beside the image, a graphic reads: “January Tip of the Month — Notice of the Existence of the Charter,” along with the Pasadena Rent Stabilization Department logo.

As the new year begins and new tenancies start, landlords and tenants should be aware of an important requirement under Pasadena’s rent stabilization law.

Under Section 1807(c) of the Pasadena Fair and Equitable Housing Charter Article (Article XVIII), landlords are required to provide all tenants with a Notice of the Existence of the Charter at the start of a tenancy. This notice explains key tenant protections and limits on rent increases and evictions under Article XVIII.

🔹 What Does the Notice Do?

The Notice of the Existence of the Charter:

  • Summarizes the scope of Pasadena’s rent stabilization and eviction protections.
  • Includes information about tenants’ rights, including how to petition against unlawful rent increases.
  • Shares details about the City’s Rental Registry and other tenant awareness provisions.

This notice must be provided before or at the time the tenant takes occupancy. It may be provided in the language used during lease negotiations, or in another language upon request if a translation is available.

Providing the Notice of the Existence of the Charter at the beginning of a tenancy helps ensure that tenants receive clear and consistent information about their rights from day one, including protections against unwarranted rent increases and evictions. It’s an important part of building positive landlord-tenant relationships and promoting transparency in rental housing.

For access to the official Notice, visit the Notices & Forms page on the Rent Stabilization Department’s website or contact the Department for assistance.