Know Your Rights: San Luis Obispo Renters Rights Explained

Did you know that in San Luis Obispo, about 60% of households are renters, many of whom may not be fully informed about their housing rights? At Kimberly's, we want our tenants to be aware of these rights. Below is an outline from the City of San Luis Obispo regarding protections for renters in our community.

Key Protections Include: 

• Eviction Control 

  • Just Cause Requirement:

    • Tenants who have lived in their homes for 12 months cannot be evicted without a legitimate reason.

  • Relocation Assistance:

    • Tenants facing "no-fault" evictions are entitled to receive one month’s rent as assistance.

      
      

• Rent Control 

  • Rent Increase Cap:

    • Annual rent increases are limited to either 10% or 5% plus the cost of living.

  • Vacancy Decontrol:

    • When a unit becomes vacant, new rents can be set at market rate.

      
      

• Habitability Standards 

  • Landlords are required to ensure safe and clean living conditions.

  • Tenants have the right to report substandard conditions to the City.

• Anti-Discrimination and Retaliation Protections 

  • Discrimination based on various factors is prohibited by law.

  • Retaliation against tenants who assert their rights is not allowed.

    
    

New State Protections 

• Owner Move-In Requirements:

  • Landlords must indicate in eviction notices who will occupy the unit and they must move in within 90 days.

    
    

• Substantial Remodel Definition:

  • Tenants are protected during significant renovations, with landlords required to provide proof.

    
    

Kimberly’s is committed to ensuring safe and equitable living conditions for all residents. For more information, please visit www.slocity.org/safehousing or give us a call at (805) 540.5200.