Rent Stabilization Ordinance (Berkeley)

The Berkeley Rent Stabilization Ordinance limits how much landlords can increase rent and restricts eviction rights for residential properties built before 1980. It aims to provide tenants with predictable housing costs and stability by capping annual rent increases (usually tied to a percentage or inflation). Landlords must follow specific legal procedures for rent increases and evictions, and tenants have the right to challenge unfair increases. The ordinance balances tenants' access to affordable housing with landlords' property rights, helping maintain stable communities while preventing unjust rent hikes.