What are rent control laws in California?

California’s statewide rent control laws, established under the California Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482), limit the amount a landlord can increase rent each year to 5% plus the local rate of inflation, or 10%, whichever is lower. These laws apply to most rental properties built before January 1, 2005, though some exceptions exist. Local jurisdictions may have additional rent control regulations, so tenants should check local ordinances for specific rules.