Rental regulations in California continue to evolve. Staying compliant is more important than ever. This is especially true in high-demand markets like San Diego. Assembly Bill 1482 (AB 1482) is one of the most critical laws impacting landlords and property managers. It is also known as the Tenant Protection Act of 2019. As we move into 2026, understanding rent caps is essential. Knowing proper notice requirements is crucial to avoid costly mistakes and legal exposure.
What Is AB 1482?
AB 1482 places limits on how much and how often landlords can increase rent for qualifying residential properties across California. Unless a unit is exempt, most rental properties fall under this law.
Under AB 1482, annual rent increases are capped at:
5% + local Consumer Price Index (CPI)
OR
10% total—whichever is lower
This cap applies to rent increases over a rolling 12-month period.
In San Diego, where CPI adjustments fluctuate yearly, this means landlords must calculate increases carefully to remain compliant.
Which Properties Are Covered?
AB 1482 generally applies to:
- Apartment buildings over 15 years old
- Condos or single-family homes unless properly exempted and disclosed
- Multi-unit residential properties not subject to local rent control
Exemptions may apply to:
- New construction (within the last 15 years)
- Owner-occupied duplexes
- Certain single-family homes or condos if tenants are properly notified in writing of the exemption
Failure to provide the required exemption notice means the property may still be subject to rent caps. This applies even if it otherwise qualifies for exemption.
Written Notice Requirements Matter
Even when a rent increase is lawful, proper written notice is required:
- 30-day written notice for rent increases of 10% or less
- 90-day written notice for increases over 10% (when allowed)
Notices must clearly state:
- The current rent
- The new rent amount
- The effective date
- Compliance with AB 1482 (when applicable)
Improper or missing notice can invalidate the increase entirely.
Why Compliance Is Critical in San Diego
San Diego has additional tenant protections layered on top of state law, including stricter rules around evictions, deposits, and habitability. Failing to comply with AB 1482 can result in:
- Forced rent rollbacks
- Tenant complaints or lawsuits
- Civil penalties and legal fees
- Delays in leasing or renewals
In 2026, enforcement continues to increase as tenants become more informed of their rights.
How Key Property Management Inc. Helps Owners Stay Compliant
At Key Property Management Inc., we stay up to date on all California and San Diego rental regulations so you don’t have to. Our team:
- Calculates allowable rent increases based on current CPI
- Confirms exemption eligibility and ensures proper disclosures
- Prepares and serves legally compliant notices
- Advises owners before renewals or rent adjustments
- Helps protect you from costly compliance errors
Navigating rent laws doesn’t have to be overwhelming—with the right support, it can be seamless.
Final Thoughts
Rent increases are a necessary part of property ownership, but they must be handled carefully. As San Diego moves into 2026, AB 1482 remains a cornerstone of tenant protection law. Staying compliant protects your investment, your reputation, and your long-term success.
If you’re unsure whether your property is subject to rent caps, Key Property Management Inc. can assist you. They can also help you understand how much you can legally increase rent. Key Property Management Inc. is here to help.
📞 Call us at (619) 746-7528
🌐 Visit keymgmtsandiego.com
Works Cited
California Legislative Information. Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482). California State Legislature,
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
California Department of Consumer Affairs. California Tenant Protection Laws.
City of San Diego. Tenant Protections Ordinance. City of San Diego Official Website,
Nolo. California Rent Increase Limits and Notice Requirements.
