Rent Control & Tenant Protection Measures

Landlord Registration Deadline

Landlords have until July 31 each year to register/re-register their rental units and pay the rental registration fee. August 1 is considered the first late day for payment or registration. If July 31 falls on a nonbusiness day, the due date will be extended to the next business day.

Please sign up for email updates from the City on Housing Issues to ensure you are notified.  

Residential Rental Unit Registration Fee

At its May 24, 2021 meeting, the City Council approved an annual registration fee of $167 per residential rental unit, as well as fees for late payment, failure to register, and change in rental property ownership. 

The City will not issue any refunds for the rental unit registration fee, including if there is a change in ownership or the rental unit is removed from the rental market.

Failure to Register/Late Payment Penalty Fee

Landlord Registration and Change in Ownership fees are due at the time the landlord submits registration or change in ownership. 

To avoid a late payment penalty, a landlord’s registration and payment must be postmarked on or before July 31. A penalty of 20% will be added on the first day of each month following July 31 up to a maximum of 100%. The penalty will be assessed on the total amount unpaid, including any unpaid residential rental unit registration fees and any unpaid change in ownership fees from the previous year. Late fees will not be assessed on failure to register penalty fees.

Change in Ownership Fee

$15 per property

This fee is due at the time the rental unit registration information is updated with the new owner information.  

Rental Registration Fee Pass-Throughs

Pass-through fees were only applicable to the initial registration fee, which was due in March 2022, for tenants who continuously occupied the unit during the period of August 12, 2019 through October 31, 2020.

Permanent rent control and tenant protections ordinances went into effect in Culver City on October 30, 2020 protecting those who rent in Culver City. There is a limit on annual rent increases for all rental unit in Culver City built on or before February 1, 1995. Exceptions do apply. 

Exemptions to Rent Control

• Dwelling units expressly exempt from rent control per state or federal law.
• Dwelling units occupied after February 1, 1995.
• Single-family homes, condominiums and townhomes.
• Subdivided interest in a subdivision.
• Government subsidized dwelling units. 

Capital Improvement Pass-Through Program

• 50% of the cost of eligible capital improvement projects may be passed-through to tenants, amortized over the useful life of the improvement, with an aggregate cap of the pass through costs not to exceed 3% of tenant’s rent.
• Eligible capital improvement projects include the addition of new capital improvements, but not the renovations or replacement of existing capital improvements.

Rent Registry

• All rental units must be registered with the City.
• Registration must be updated annually, upon a new tenancy, and when there are changes in housing services for the unit.
• Landlords must post the Rent Control Ordinance Notice in a conspicuous location in the common area, at the entry or entries to the building or units, or other similar location or locations as necessary to provide tenants a reasonable opportunity to view the notice.

The Latest on L.A. County's Tenant Protections

Los Angeles County’s COVID-19 Tenant Protections Resolution (formerly known as the “Los Angeles County Eviction Moratorium”) went into effect on March 4, 2020. The resolution protects tenants from harassment, retaliation and eviction for failure to pay rent and more. Certain protections have expired as of March 31, 2023, unless further extended or repealed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

Culver City residential tenants and mobile home space renters, as well as other cities and unincorporated areas within the County, may have certain protections under the L.A. County COVID-19 Tenant Protections Resolution. Residential tenants and mobile home space renters with household incomes at or below 80% of the Area Median Income are protected for nonpayment of rent due to COVID-19 financial hardship between July 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023. In addition, the tenant or renter must have experienced a substantial loss of at least 10% monthly household income and/or have increased unreimbursed monthly household costs of more than 7.5%. Tenants and renters can call 800-593-8222 to consult the County on their rights and to see if they qualify for free legal assistance. Learn more about L.A. County’s COVID-19 Tenant Protections Resolution.

Culver City Eviction Protections

• Evictions must be based on “for cause” or “no fault” grounds.
• “For cause” includes failure to pay rent; breach of rental agreement; failure to provide reasonable access to unit; tenant’s use of unit to create a nuisance or for an illegal purpose; tenant was the resident manager who has been terminated.
• “No fault” includes recovery of unit in order to: demolish; remove from rental market; move forward with an eligible relative landlord occupancy; comply with deed or regulatory restriction; comply with government or other order necessitating the vacancy.
• Tenants protected from landlord occupancy eviction include: long-term tenants who are 62 years old or disabled; terminally ill tenants; low-income tenants; tenants with school-aged children protected during the school year.

Exemptions from Eviction Protections

• Eviction protections do not apply within the first 12 months of tenancy (12-month “vesting” period).
• Eviction protections do not apply to units that lack their own bathroom or kitchen facility.

Relocation Assistance

• Three times the greater of current rent in effect or small area fair market rent established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, plus $1000.
• Landlord may deduct past due rent, with the exception of back rent accrued during City’s Residential Tenant Eviction Moratorium period, as well as amounts to cover extraordinary wear and tear.
• “Small Landlords” (defined as those owning 3 units or less within and outside of Culver City) shall only pay 50% of the amount of relocation assistance otherwise due.

Exemptions from the Payment of Relocation Assistance

• Tenant was on notice prior to entering rental agreement that application to subdivide property or convert the building for a condominium, stock cooperative or community apartment project was on filed or approved by the City.
• Landlord’s recover of the unit and eviction of tenant was in compliance with government or court order to vacate due to natural disaster or act of God conditions.

Uninhabitable Conditions

Landlords are obligated to take steps to make units safe for their tenants during some types of construction. Tenants are protected if faced with temporary uninhabitable conditions, which can happen with projects requiring: 

• Substantial rehabilitation, such as replacing or significantly modifying structural, electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems, as well as removing hazardous materials, such as lead-based paint, mold or asbestos;
• Fumigation; or
• The need to meet State or City housing, health, building or safety laws. 

Improvements, such as painting, decorating, minor repairs or other work that can be done safely and without the need for vacating do not fall into this category.

If a tenant is faced with uninhabitable conditions, the landlord must provide temporary relocation or comparable living arrangements, or may provide a per diem payment if agreed to by the tenant. If work is anticipated to last more than 30 days, tenants may voluntarily terminate their lease and start negotiating a buyout agreement with their landlord. If work continues beyond 30 days of the projected completion date, tenants may renew their option to voluntarily terminate their tenancy and enter into a buyout agreement. Regardless, landlords must provide 30 days’ notice prior to construction with a shorter period for emergencies. 

Retaliatory Eviction

• If the primary intent of the landlord in terminating a tenancy or refusing to renew a tenancy is retaliatory in nature, and if the tenant is not in default as to the payment of rent, then the landlord may not terminate the tenancy or refuse to renew the tenancy or otherwise cause the tenant to vacate the rental unit.
• Retaliation against a tenant because of the tenant's exercise of rights under this subchapter is prohibited. In an action to recover possession of the rental unit, proof of the exercise by the tenant of rights under this subchapter or other applicable law within six months prior to the alleged act of retaliation shall create a rebuttable presumption that the landlord's act was retaliatory.
• Retaliation claims may be raised as a defense in an unlawful detainer action or may be raised in other appropriate judicial proceedings and the court may consider the protections afforded by this subchapter in evaluating a claim of retaliation. Landlords shall not be subject to the city's enforcement of this § 15.09.340.A under § 15.09.345. 

Anti-Harassment

Tenants are protected by anti-harassment laws. No landlord, agent, contractor, subcontractor or employee of the landlord can violate the tenant protections in California’s Civil Code, California's Fair Employment and Housing Act, the federal Fair Housing Act or similar state and federal laws.

Harassment may include acts that disturbs a tenant’s comfort, rest, peace or quiet. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Acting in bad faith, interrupt, terminate, or fail to provide housing services required by the rental agreement or by federal, State, county, or local housing, health, or safety laws;
• Acting in bad faith, fail to perform repairs and maintenance required by the rental agreement or by federal, State, county or local housing, health, or safety laws;
• Acting in bad faith, fail to exercise due diligence in completing repairs and maintenance once undertaken or fail to follow appropriate industry standards or protocols designed to minimize exposure to noise, dust, lead, paint, mold, asbestos, or other building materials with potentially harmful health impacts;
• Abuse the landlord's right of access into a rental unit as established and restricted by State law. This includes, but is not limited to: entries for inspections that are not related to necessary repairs or services; entries that are unreasonable in frequency or duration; entries that improperly target individual occupants or are used to collect evidence against an occupant or are otherwise beyond the scope of a lawful entry;
• Repeatedly mistreat an occupant of the rental unit during in-person conversations, through social media postings or messages, or other communications, with language that a reasonable person would consider likely to cause fear or provoke violence;
• Influence or attempt to influence a tenant to vacate a rental unit through fraud, intimidation or coercion, which shall include but is not limited to threatening to report a tenant to the United States Department of Homeland Security;
• Threaten an occupant of the rental unit, by word or gesture, with physical harm;
• Knowingly and intentionally violate any law which prohibits discrimination against the tenant based on race, gender, sexual preference, sexual orientation, ethnic background, nationality, religion, age, parenthood, marriage, pregnancy, disability, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), occupancy by a minor child, or source of income;
• Make a sexual demand on a tenant in order for the tenant to obtain needed maintenance on the rental unit, or to obtain a rent concession or additional housing services, or to avoid an eviction, or make other quid pro quo sexual demands on a tenant; subject a tenant to severe or pervasive unwelcome touching, kissing, or groping; make severe or pervasive unwelcome, lewd comments about a tenant's body; send a tenant severe or pervasive unwelcome, sexually suggestive texts or enter the rental unit without invitation or permission; or engage in other actions that create a hostile environment;
• Take action to terminate any tenancy, including serving any notice of termination or bringing any action to recover possession of a rental unit, based upon facts which the landlord has no reasonable cause to believe to be true or upon a legal theory which the landlord knows is uninhabitable under the facts known to the landlord. No landlord shall be liable under this § 15.09.340.B.10 for bringing an action to recover possession unless and until the tenant has obtained a favorable termination of that action;
• Remove from the rental unit personal property, furnishings, or any other items without the prior written consent of the tenant, except pursuant to enforcement of a legal termination of tenancy;
• Offer payments to a tenant to vacate, including the offer of a buyout agreement under § 15.09.335, more frequently than once every six months, after the tenant has notified the landlord in writing that the tenant does not desire to receive further offers of payments to vacate;
• Attempt to coerce a tenant to vacate with offers of payment to vacate, including offers of a buyout agreement under § 15.09.335, which are accompanied with threats or intimidation. This shall not include settlement offers made in good faith and not accompanied with threats or intimidation in pending unlawful detainer actions;
• Refuse to acknowledge receipt of a tenant's rent payment made during the term of the tenancy and in accordance with the rental agreement;
• Refuse to cash a rent check for over 30 days when the check is given to cover rent during the term of the tenancy and in accordance with the rental agreement;
• Request information that violates a tenant's right to privacy including, but not limited to, residency or citizenship status, protected class status, or social security number, except as required by law or, in the case of a social security number, for the purpose of determining the tenant's qualifications for a tenancy; or release any such information that is in landlord's possession, except as required or authorized by law;
• Violate a tenant's right to privacy in the rental unit, including but not limited to, entering, photographing, or video recording portions of a rental unit that are beyond the scope of an authorized entry or inspection;
• Interfere with a tenant's right to quiet use and enjoyment of a rental unit as that right is defined by State law;
• Other acts or omissions that cause, are likely to cause, or are intended to cause any person lawfully entitled to occupancy of a rental unit to vacate such rental unit or to surrender or waive any rights in relation to such occupancy; or
• Interfere with the right of tenant to:

• Organize as tenants and engage in concerted activities with other tenants for the purpose of mutual aid and protection;
• Provide access to tenant organizers, advocates, or representatives working with or on behalf of tenants living at the property;
• Convene tenant or tenant organization meetings in an appropriate space accessible to tenants under the terms of their rental agreement; or
• Distribute and post literature in common areas, including lobby areas and bulletin boards, informing other tenants of their rights and of opportunities to participate in organized tenant activities.

If tenants have questions about their rights or are concerned that their rights may be violated, they should contact the Culver City Housing Department by email at Rent.Control@CulverCity.org, via phone (310) 253-5790 or by visiting the Department Office on the second floor of City Hall at 9770 Culver Boulevard.

The City caps annual rent increases at an amount tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The maximum allowable increase on rents that take effect during any given month are released monthly, approximately six weeks in advance of the first of each month. The maximum permissible annual rent increase is 4.25% for increases effective between December 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023 and 4.00% for increases effective between January 1, 2024 through January 31, 2024.

Landlords may not impose more than one Rent increase for a Covered Rental Unit in any twelve-month (12- month) period. A Landlord may impose a Rent increase that takes effect sooner than twelve (12) months following the date of the latest permitted Rent increase under the Interim Rent Control Ordinance, but the prior increase under Interim Rent Control Ordinance in combination with a rent increase under permanent ordinance may not exceed the maximum allowable annual rent increase under the permanent ordinance. The City will establish a process for a landlord to request a rent adjustment if they can demonstrate the limitations on rent increases will prevent the Landlord from receiving a fair and reasonable return with respect to the operation of the property. 

Learn more about how the City calculates the maximum permissible annual rent increase by reading:

The City of Culver City recently adopted a Soft Story Ordinance to promote public welfare and safety by reducing risk of death or injury from earthquakes on multi-story buildings. In past earthquakes, most of these types of structures perform poorly and collapse causing loss of life, personal injury and substantial property damage. This ordinance amends the California Building Code, creating minimum standards to reduce these risks.

If a building fails to comply with requirements of Culver City’s soft story ordinance, the building may require a seismic retrofit. In such cases, owners must notify all current and prospective residential and non-residential tenants about the project. Culver City’s Community Development Department and Building and Safety Division will provide a notice form, which calls for information about the project, including the scope of work, expected duration and contact information for a representative of the contractor.

Tenant Protections

In compliance with Section 15.09.330 of the Culver City Municipal Code, property owners must prevent uninhabitable conditions resulting from the project by:

• Ensuring tenants can safely remain in the building during the project; or
• Through the temporary relocation of Tenants.

Property owners must complete a Tenant Impact Mitigation Plan(PDF, 193KB) before the work is performed.   

When is registration and the rental unit registration fee due?

All rental unit(s) must be registered annually by July 31, with a grace period for registration and fee payment through August 31. Upon registration, you will receive a Registration Certificate(s), which is good for 12 months. Landlords are subject to additional fees for the failure to register or late payments. The fee is due at the time of the rental unit registration. To avoid a late payment penalty, a landlord’s registration and payment must be postmarked on or before July 31.

Register, re-register, and pay fees using the City's Rental Unit Registration Portal.

How much is the rental unit registration fee?

$167 per unit, per year. 

Are there any other fees?

Yes. In addition to annual rental unit registration fees, property owners are subject to a change in ownership fee. The change in ownership fee is $15 per property and due at the time the rental unit registration information is updated with the new owner information.

Can I receive a refund for paid fees?

The City will not issue any refunds for the rental unit registration fee, including if there is a change in ownership or the rental unit is removed from the rental market.

Can I pass through the fee(s) to my tenant(s)?

Pass-through fees were only applicable to the initial registration fee, which was due in March 2022, for tenants who continuously occupied the unit during the period of August 12, 2019 through October 31, 2020.

Are there any exemptions to the fees?

Yes, if you believe your unit(s) should be exempt from the registration fee requirements, please reach out to the Culver City Housing Division via email at Rent.Control@CulverCity.org or call (310) 253-5790. Some exemptions include:

• Owner-occupied units. However, units that were exempt due to owner occupancy and become rented will require registration.
• Vacant units, but the landlord is required to provide certification to the Housing Division declaring that the unit is vacant and will remain vacant and is secured against entry.

Why are these fees in place?

On September 29, 2020, the City Council amended the Culver City Municipal Code (CCMC) Chapter 15.09 to add permanent residential rent control and tenant protections programs.  

CCMC Section 15.09.230.D contains provisions for the City Council, by resolution, to establish a fee for the registration of rental units intended to recover the City’s reasonable costs associated with the administration and enforcement of the City’s residential rent control and tenant protections programs.

At its meeting on May 24, 2021, the City Council approved an annual registration fee, as well as fees for late payment, failure to register, and change in rental property ownership. The May 24, 2021 City Council meeting agenda and May 24, 2021 City Council staff report contain more information about the information considered by the City Council when they approved the fees. 

Who is required to register rental units?

Landlords or property owners are responsible for completing the registration process and paying the annual rental unit registration fee. 

All rental units in Culver City must be registered, including rental units that are exempt from rent control, but receive tenant protections – unless the unit has an approved exemption from the Housing Division.

I own a single-family home, condo, and/or townhome. Am I required to register?

It depends. If the unit is being rented out, you are required to register the unit as outlined in Culver City Municipal Code (CCMC) 15.09.230.

Where can I register?

Register, re-register, and pay fees using the Culver City Rental Unit Registration Portal.

What if I am not able to register online?

If you need any assistance with the application process, please call the City’s HdL Support Center at 310-594-7847 (Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. PST) or send an email to CulverCity@HdLgov.com, copying (CC) Rent.Control@CulverCity.org.

I am having an issue with registering, what can I do?

Please email Request@HdLgov.com and copy (CC) Rent.Control@CulverCity.org for if you need assistance registering your units.

What happens if I do not register my rental unit(s) by the required date?

As a landlord or property owner, if you don’t register your units(s) by July 31, you will be subject to a penalty fee. A penalty of 20% will be added on the first day of each month following July 31 up to a maximum of 100%. 

The penalty will be assessed on the total amount unpaid, including any unpaid residential rental unit registration fees and any unpaid change in ownership fees from the previous year. Late fees will not be assessed on penalty fees. If July 31 falls on a nonbusiness day, the due date will be extended to the next business day.

What is the Maximum Permissible Rent Increase?

The maximum permissible annual rent increase is based on the average annual change in the consumer price index (“CPI change”). If CPI change is less than 2%, maximum allowable annual rent increase is 2%. If CPI change is more than 5%, maximum allowable annual rent increase is 5%.

The maximum permissible annual rent increase is 4.25% for increases effective between December 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023 and 4.00% for increases effective between January 1, 2024 through January 31, 2024.

When will the rent cap for increases effective during future periods be announced?

Each month, on the next business day after the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes the CPI, the Housing Division will publish on its Rent Control/Tenant Protections webpage the maximum permissible rent increase for rent increases that are effective in the month that is approximately six weeks after the published increase. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes a schedule in advance of the CPI publishing dates for the upcoming year.

When can landlords re-establish rents at market rates?

Landlords may re-establish rents at market rates when:

• Tenant voluntarily vacates, with certain limitations.
• Tenant is evicted based on “for cause” grounds.
• Tenant is evicted based on “no fault” grounds, with the following limitation: if vacated for landlord’s relative to move-in, the unit must remain relative’s primary residence for three years. 

When can't landlords re-establish rents at market rates?

Landlords may not set rents to market rates when:

• Tenant vacates due to landlord harassment.
• Tenant is evicted before the end of their first year (12-month “vesting” period).
• Tenant voluntarily vacates pursuant to a tenant buyout agreement due to untenantable (uninhabitable) conditions (such as major renovation). 

What is a “housing development project”?

A Housing Development Project is defined in California Government Code Section 65905.5(b)(3) to include a project that creates one or more residential unit(s), Supportive Housing, or Transitional Housing. A project that results in a net increase in residential units is a Housing Development Project, regardless of the building permit type under which the construction occurs. For example, a Housing Development Project would result from the interior conversion of a commercial building to an apartment or conversion of a single-family dwelling to a duplex. A residential project or a mixed use project on a site that includes residential units and results in a net decrease in residential units is also a Housing Development Project, regardless of the building permit type under which the construction occurs. For example, the conversion of a duplex to a single-family dwelling is a Housing Development Project that results in a net loss of units. Residential projects consisting only of alterations, no new residential units, and no net increase or decrease in residential units shall not be considered a Housing Development project.

How does the City determine the income levels of current tenants?

City will send a letter to current occupants asking for income verification through W-2 forms, payroll stubs, tax returns, public benefit determination or confirmation letters, an income certification form, etc. In addition, applicants can provide documentation in their possession.

How does the City determine the income levels of former tenants?

City will send a letter to prior occupants asking for income verification through W-2 forms, payroll stubs, tax returns, public benefit determination or confirmation letters, an income certification form, etc. The request for household income information will be sent to the last known address of the occupants. Applicants will be asked to provide the last known address, including the address to which any unused rental deposit was sent. In addition, applicants can provide documentation in their possession.

What if the City can’t determine the income levels of current or former tenants?

State law creates a rebuttable presumption that lower income, low income, or very low-income households occupied these units in the same proportion that lower income, low income, or very low-income households to all renter households within the jurisdiction as determined by the most recently available data from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy database. The level of affordability depends on the status of the unit (occupied, unoccupied, vacated, or demolished). The applicant may provide evidence to rebut the presumption.

What if an applicant is not demolishing a unit, but the applicant is doing major renovations?

If there is no demolition of a unit, SB 330 and SB 8 do not apply. The City’s Tenant Protections and Rent Control Ordinances still apply.

How is a replacement unit required to be maintained as affordable?

• For rentals: If the replacement units will be rental dwelling units, these units shall be subject to a recorded affordability restriction for at least 55 years.
• For sale units: If the proposed development is for-sale units, the units replaced shall be subject to Government Code section 65915 (c)(2). A for-sale unit must meet either of the following conditions:
  
  • The unit is initially occupied by a person or family of very low, low, or moderate income, as required, and it is offered at an affordable housing cost, as that cost is defined in Section 50052.5 of the Health and Safety Code and is subject to an equity sharing agreement.
  • The unit is purchased by a qualified nonprofit housing corporation pursuant to a recorded contract that satisfies all of the requirements specified in paragraph (10) of subdivision (a) of Section 402.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code and that includes all of the following:
    • A repurchase option that requires a subsequent purchaser of the property that desires to resell or convey the property to offer the qualified nonprofit corporation the right to repurchase the property prior to selling or conveying that property to any other purchaser.
    • An equity sharing agreement.
    • Affordability restrictions on the sale and conveyance of the property that ensure that the property will be preserved for lower income housing for at least 45 years for owner-occupied housing units and will be sold or resold only to persons or families of very low, low, or moderate income, as defined in Section 50052.5 of the Health and Safety Code.

The following apply to the equity sharing agreement:

• Upon resale, the seller of the unit shall retain the value of any improvements, the downpayment, and the seller’s proportionate share of appreciation.
• Except as provided in clause (v), the local government shall recapture any initial subsidy, as defined in clause (iii), and its proportionate share of appreciation, as defined in clause (iv), which amount shall be used within five years for any of the purposes described in subdivision (e) of Section 33334.2 of the Health and Safety Code that promote home ownership.
• For purposes of this subdivision, the local government’s initial subsidy shall be equal to the fair market value of the home at the time of initial sale minus the initial sale price to the moderate-income household, plus the amount of any downpayment assistance or mortgage assistance. If upon resale the market value is lower than the initial market value, then the value at the time of the resale shall be used as the initial market value.
• For purposes of this subdivision, the local government’s proportionate share of appreciation shall be equal to the ratio of the local government’s initial subsidy to the fair market value of the home at the time of initial sale.
• If the unit is purchased or developed by a qualified nonprofit housing corporation pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (A) the local government may enter into a contract with the qualified nonprofit housing corporation under which the qualified nonprofit housing corporation would recapture any initial subsidy and its proportionate share of appreciation if the qualified nonprofit housing corporation is required to use 100 percent of the proceeds to promote homeownership for lower income households as defined by Health and Safety Code Section 50079.5 within the jurisdiction of the local government.

What is the proportion of lower income households to all renter households within the City as determined by the most recently available data from the HUD Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy database?

That information can be found at the Office of Policy Development and Research website.

Do SB 330/SB 8 apply in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones?

The replacement provisions and occupant protections of the Housing Crisis Act (SB 330/SB 8) do not apply to Housing Development Projects in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, as determined by the State Fire Marshal.

What if my existing units are non-conforming as to zoning density?

A site with legal non-conforming units as to density must be replaced without regard to the underlying zoning limitations on density, consistent with Government Code Section 66300(d)(1). All other applicable development standards and processes still apply in addition to any applicable exceptions.

Does this apply if the Project consists of 100% lower income units?

The right to return provision does not apply to a Project consisting of 100% lower income units.

The City of Culver City only administers its permanent Rent Control & Tenant Protection Measures, not AB 1482 protections. If you have any questions regarding AB 1482, please contact an attorney. If you have any questions about the City’s protections, please email the Housing and Human Services Department or call (310) 253-5790.

What is AB 1482?

California Assembly Bill (AB) 1482, or the California Tenant Protection Act, went into effect on January 1, 2020. This State law limits rent increases and provides eviction protections and relocation assistance for statewide tenants not otherwise supplied by any local rent control and tenant protections program. The law will expire on January 1, 2030.

Who is covered under AB 1482?

California tenants are protected by AB 1482 unless they live in a unit(s) exempt from rent cap limitations. Tenants are exempt from eviction protections if:

• The tenant is already protected under local ordinances, such as the Culver City Rent Control and Tenant Protections Ordinance
• The unit is a single-family, owner-occupied residence where the owner rents no more than two bedrooms or units, including accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units
• The unit has the tenant share bathroom or kitchen facilities with the owner, if the owner lives at the property as their principal residence
• The unit is provided by a nonprofit hospital, church, extended care facility, licensed extended care facility for the elderly or an adult residential facility

Tenants are exempt from both the eviction protections and rent cap limitations if:

• The unit was constructed within the last 15 years
• The unit is restricted by a deed, regulatory restrictions or other recorded document limiting the affordability to low or moderate-income households
• The unit is one of select dormitories
• The unit is a two-unit property, provided the second unit was occupied by an owner of the property for the entire period of the tenancy
• The unit is a single-family home or condominium that is not owned by a real estate trust, a corporation or an LLC with at least one corporate member, and the landlord notified the tenant in writing that the tenancy is not protected

What are AB 1482’s eviction protections?

AB 1482 eviction protections only apply to a California tenant after they have lived in the unit for 12 months or more, or if least one tenant has occupied the unit for 24 months. A tenant can only be evicted for “just cause” reasons, either “at fault” or “no fault”. If the eviction is at “no fault” to the tenant, landlords/property owners must provide relocation assistance.

What are AB 1482’s rent increase limits?

Annual rent increases are limited to no more than 5% plus the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in which the unit is located, or 10% whichever is less. Tenants should not receive more than two increases in a 12-month period.

How does AB 1482 apply to Culver City tenants?

The City of Culver City’s Rent Control already applies maximum permissible rent increases on local landlords. The City caps annual rent increases at an amount tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The maximum allowable increase on rents that take effect during any given month are released monthly, approximately six weeks in advance of the first of each month. Landlords may not impose more than one rent increase for a covered unit in any twelve-month (12-month) period.

In addition, Culver City tenants may receive eviction protections, relocation assistance and uninhabitable conditions and harassment protections under the City’s Rent Control and Tenant Protections. State law does not remove or replace the City of Culver City’s Rent Control and Tenant Protections. Although, for those who are unable to receive the City’s protections, AB 1482 protections may be applicable. The City encourages tenants to speak to an attorney to clarify their rights, protections and responsibilities.

Replacement Unit Determination Form (SB 8 and SB 330)

The Housing Crisis Act of 2019 prohibits the approval of any proposed housing development project on a site that will require demolition of existing dwelling units or occupied or vacant "Protected Units" unless the project replaces those units. Owners of a project subject to the replacement obligations must complete this form(PDF, 328KB).

Residential Rental Registry and Rent Registration Certificate

Landlords are required to register units under the new permanent rent control regulations. The first deadline for registration was July 31, 2021, and each July 31^st thereafter. 

Please sign-up for email updates from the City to ensure you’re notified.

• Rental Unit Registration Portal
• Guideline Rule No. 2021-RC03 Requirements for Updating Rent Registration Certificates(PDF, 159KB)

Rent Control Notice: A Required Posting

All landlords must post the Rent Control Ordinance Notice in a conspicuous location in the common area, at the entry or entries to the building or units, or other similar location or locations as necessary to provide tenants a reasonable opportunity to view the notice, at all properties where a Rent Registration Certificate is required (see CCMC 15.09.230(B)(5)). The one-page form will be written in both English and Spanish and provides tenants with information about Rent Control in Culver City. 

• Rent Control Ordinance Notice(PDF, 215KB)

Tenant Buyouts

• Tenant Buyout Agreement Disclosure Notice(PDF, 82KB)

Application for Rent Adjustment

Landlords may use the "Application for Rent Adjustment" form to apply to increase rents beyond the maximum increase permitted by the Rent Control Ordinance.  The process of application and evaluation is described in "Guideline/Rule No. 2021-RC02 Applications for Rent Adjustments".

• Application for Rent Adjustment(PDF, 10MB)
  • Amortization Schedule(PDF, 114KB)
• Guideline/Rule No. 2021-RC02 Applications for Rent Adjustments(PDF, 153KB)
• Guideline/Rule No. 2021-RC04 Owner-Performed Labor(PDF, 172KB)

Capital Improvement Cost Recovery Application

• Capital Improvement Cost Recovery Application(PDF, 163KB)

Proof of Service Form

The Proof of Service form must be completed and provided to the Housing Division, whenever Culver City Municipal Code (CCMC), Subchapters 15.09.200, et seq. and 15.09.300, et seq., require a proof of service to be filed with the Housing Division.

• Proof of Service form(PDF, 71KB)

More Resources for Landlords

• What Landlords Need to Know(PDF, 1MB)

Tenant Buyouts

Tenant Buyout Agreement Disclosure Notice(PDF, 82KB)

Proof of Service Form

The Proof of Service form must be completed and provided to the Housing Division, whenever Culver City Municipal Code (CCMC), Subchapters 15.09.200, et seq. and 15.09.300, et seq., require a proof of service to be filed with the Housing Division.

Proof of Service form(PDF, 71KB)

Free Legal Services for Culver City Tenants: Tenant Advocacy Legal Clinic

The City retained Bet Tzedek Legal Services to provide dedicated resources to Culver City residents seeking legal advice regarding landlord/tenant issues, including issues relating to the state residential eviction moratorium. These services are free to individuals living in the City of Culver City, regardless of immigration status, primary language or physical abilities. A part of the Preventing and Ending Homelessness Project, available services include advising tenants on Culver City’s Permanent Rent Control and Tenant Protections ordinances and fair housing laws.

Culver City tenants: if you need legal advice or have questions about your rental housing:

1. Leave a voicemail with your name, phone number and address at (323) 549-5891
2. Email CulverCityHousing@BetTzedek.org
   
   

Bet Tzedek Walk-In Clinic

Bet Tzedek holds free weekly legal clinics where Culver City tenants can receive one on one legal assistance on their specific housing issues. The clinics are held virtually every Wednesday from 10:00am-1:00pm. Tenants can schedule the appointments online, or by calling 323-549-5891 or emailing culvercityhousing@bettzedek.org.

There will be three 30 minute time slots available starting at 10:00am, followed by office hours on Zoom where tenants can simply “walk-in” for assistance from 11:30am-1:00pm.

Tenant Housing Clinic Flyer(PDF, 557KB)

Tenant Petition for Noncompliance

If a tenant contends that a proposed or actual rent increase is not in compliance with Culver City Municipal Code (CCMC) Section 15.09.215 or that there has been a reduction in housing services, then the tenant may file a Tenant Petition for Noncompliance with the Housing Division.

• Tenant Petition for Noncompliance Form(PDF, 285KB)
• Guideline/Rule No. 2023-RC-05 Reduction of Housing Services(PDF, 248KB)

Other Information

Stay Housed L.A. County is a countywide initiative to provide legal assistance and support for tenants facing eviction amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Stay Housed L.A. County website provides tenants with useful information about their rights, workshops for residents who need legal assistance, and other support. Stay Housed L.A. County is a partnership between the County of Los Angeles, legal aid groups and community-based organizations to provide emergency support to tenants in need. Know Your Rights workshops will also be offered by participating community organizations to provide L.A. County residents with critical information about permanent and emergency tenant protections that can help tenants facing eviction or other challenges related to their rental housing. Community organizations will provide targeted ongoing support to help tenants with case management support.

More Resources for Tenants

• What Tenants Need to Know(PDF, 1MB)
• The Latest on Tenant Eviction Protections(PDF, 843KB)
• Tenant Petition for Noncompliance

• What are my options related to my eviction?(PDF, 4MB)
• Does the City's restriction on rent increases apply to me?(PDF, 165KB)
• I am having a disagreement with my landlord or tenant, such as an issue with a recent rent increase. What are my options?(PDF, 1MB)