Tip of the Month

Winter is here! Did you know all renters have the right to a safe and habitable rental unit, which includes essentials like hot water, heating, and a home with no leaks? Understanding Habitability: - Heating facilities must be maintained in good working order. - Effective weatherproofing means no leaks, broken windows, or water intrusion. - Your home should have hot and cold running water and a proper sewage disposal system. - Lights and electrical wiring must be in good working... continue reading »"December: Habitability Requirements"

Did you know? Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher holders in Pasadena may be protected under Measure H, which offers rent control and just cause eviction protections. If you’re a Section 8 renter: Living in a multi-unit apartment built before 1995? You’re covered by both rent control and Just Cause eviction protections. In a single-family home? Just Cause for Eviction protections still apply. In a building managed by a nonprofit under a tax credit program? You may not have rent control... continue reading »"November: Section 8"

Tenants and landlords: Do you have questions about rent increases? Effective October 1, 2024, rent increases for rental units covered by the Pasadena Fair and Equitable Charter Amendment are limited to 3.0%. Tenants: Wondering how much your rent can go up? Landlords: Curious about rent increase limits? Learn more about the Annual General Adjustment (AGA) and eligibility guidelines. Stay informed, and let us help you. Learn more: Bit.ly/PasadenaRentStabilization

Did you know? Most rental units in Pasadena are covered by some provision of the Fair and Equitable Housing Charter Amendment (Charter Article XVIII). Important Information For New Tenants Security deposits: Starting July 1, 2024, most landlords may only charge an amount up to one month’s rent as a security deposit. Lease Agreements: Tenants should always request a written lease agreement from the landlord outlining all agreed upon conditions of tenancy. Upon Move-In: Take photos and document the condition of... continue reading »"August: Moving In - New Tenants Checklist"

Did you know? Subletting your room might be prohibited by your lease. Check the terms before you start! Understanding Subletting  How do I know if I can sublet: Under Pasadena’s Charter Amendment (Measure H), a subletter may replace a departing tenant on a one-for-one basis. In all other cases, check your lease! Landlord approval of subtenants: Some leases require landlord approval of sub-tenants. If that is the case, send the landlord qualified candidates to approve. Landlords must respond in 14... continue reading »"July: Subletting and Replacing Roommates"

Did you know? For most rental units in Pasadena, landlords must have a “Just Cause” reason to terminate a tenancy or evict a tenant. Understanding Just Cause Evictions A property owner can only evict a tenant if there is one of the following “Just Causes”: Failure to pay rent Breach of the lease Nuisance Illegal activity Refusal to execute a new lease with same material terms Subtenant in sole possession of unit Failure to give access to the unit as required... continue reading »"June: Just Cause Eviction"

Did you know? Deductions from a security deposit must comply with state law. Understanding Security Deposit Recovery Walk through inspections: Landlords are required to inform tenants in writing of their right to an inspection of the unit prior to the tenant’s move out date. Deposit can be used for: unpaid rent, repairing damage beyond normal wear and tear, necessary cleaning to bring the unit to move-in condition, and in some cases restoring personal property. Within 21 days of tenant vacating... continue reading »"May: Security Deposit Recovery"

Did you know? The sale of property, foreclosure, or change in ownership do not constitute a just cause for eviction in Pasadena. Understanding Property Sales & Measure H When a property is sold, the terms of tenancy (including the rent amount) transfers to the next owner. It is imperative that all parties understand the rent control status (if any) and registration requirements and status before purchasing the property. New buyers may consider Owner Move-In and “Ellis Act” evictions if they... continue reading »"April: Sale of Residential Rental Property"

Audience: Landlords & Tenants Did you know? For most rental units in Pasadena, landlords must pay a fee to tenants who are forced to permanently move out of their homes. Understanding Permanent Relocation Assistance Who is eligible: For tenants who live in a rental unit covered by the Fair and Equitable Housing Charter Amendment (Measure H), relocation assistance is required when: The landlord takes the property off the rental market (Ellis Act eviction) The landlord or their relative moves into... continue reading »"March: Relocation Assistance"