The real estate market is becoming increasingly challenging for tenants in California, especially in Los Angeles, with the cost per square foot rising, prices surging after the wildfires, and a general increase in the cost of living. However, it’s not all bad news, since a new regulation could bring some financial relief to millions of residents.
Starting April 1, Senate Bill 611 will prohibit landlords from charging tenants any fees for serving, posting, or delivering any notice, including notices for overdue rent, lease violations, or evictions. Previously, landlords in California could charge fees to cover the cost of preparing and delivering such notices.
The new la also addresses the practice of charging military tenants higher security deposits due to the potential risk of lease termination if they are called to service. The law mandates that landlords provide a written explanation if they charge a deposit higher than the standard or advertised amount. Additionally, if the tenant pays rent on time, the landlord must refund the extra amount within six months of the lease start.
Finally, SB 611 now bans landlords from charging tenants a fee for paying rent by check. While processing a check may require some extra effort from landlords or property managers, these fees are now deemed unnecessary due to the minimal work involved. However, landlords can still charge a convenience fee for rent payments made by credit card under California law.