Under California AB 1482, the maximum rent increase is 5% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI), capped at 10% total. For 2026, the exact percentage depends on the current CPI. Most properties will see a maximum increase of 8-10%. However, some exemptions apply, including properties built within the last 15 years and certain single-family homes. Use our calculator to check your specific situation.

If your landlord proposes an illegal rent increase, you can: 1) Send a formal letter citing the applicable rent control law (RentCapper can generate this for you), 2) Contact your local housing authority or tenant rights organization, 3) Consult with a tenant rights attorney for legal advice. Document all communications and keep records of your lease agreement and rental history.

Los Angeles has multiple rent control laws. The Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) applies to buildings built before 1979 and typically allows increases based on CPI (usually 3-5%). Newer buildings may be subject to California AB 1482 (5% + CPI, max 10%). Some buildings may be exempt. Check your specific building's status with our calculator.

In most rent-controlled jurisdictions, a 15% increase would be illegal. California AB 1482 caps increases at 10% maximum. However, exemptions may apply (e.g., new construction, single-family homes in some cases). Some states and cities have no rent control at all. Check your specific situation with our calculator to determine if the increase is legal.

RentCapper can generate a professional legal letter in 30 seconds. Simply enter your address, current rent, and proposed rent. Our system will calculate the legal maximum and generate a letter citing specific rent control laws. Download instantly after payment ($29 one-time fee).

AB 1482 (California Tenant Protection Act) is a statewide rent control law that limits annual rent increases to 5% + CPI (capped at 10%). It applies to most rental properties in California that are at least 15 years old. Exemptions include: properties built within the last 15 years, single-family homes (unless owned by corporations), condos (unless owned by corporations), and duplexes where the owner lives in one unit.

Not necessarily. For straightforward cases where the increase clearly violates rent control laws, you can start by sending a formal letter to your landlord (which RentCapper can generate). However, if your landlord doesn't respond or the situation is complex, consulting with a tenant rights attorney is recommended. Many cities have free tenant legal services.

If you refuse to pay an illegal rent increase, you should continue paying your current legal rent amount. Document everything and send a formal letter to your landlord explaining why the increase is illegal. If your landlord attempts to evict you for non-payment of the illegal increase, you may have legal defenses. Consult with a tenant rights attorney immediately if you receive an eviction notice.

In rent-controlled areas, landlords can typically raise rent once per year. The specific timing and notice requirements vary by jurisdiction. California AB 1482 requires at least 30 days notice for increases under 10%, and 60 days for increases of 10% or more. Some cities have stricter requirements.

Rent control laws vary significantly by state and city. Some states (like California, New York, New Jersey, and Oregon) have rent control laws, while others (like Florida, Texas, and Illinois) prohibit or severely limit rent control. Even within states that allow rent control, not all cities have implemented it. Use our calculator to check your specific location.