Support for Rental Housing Matters Now More Than Ever

Small rental housing providers are deeply involved in their work every single day. They are checking in on their residents, maintaining their buildings, responding to repairs, and doing everything they can to keep housing safe and stable. But in today’s environment, running a rental property requires far more than day-to-day management. Providers must also monitor a constant stream of new laws, shifting policies, emergency regulations, and ever-changing interactions with cities and counties.

As we close out the year, rental housing providers should be mindful of several key deadlines and policy changes taking effect on January 1st. Balcony and elevated walkway inspections must be scheduled and completed and providers who haven’t yet begun this process should act quickly to avoid penalties. In Oakland, the allowable period for using banked rent is also changing, shrinking from 10 years to just 5 years, which will significantly impact long-term rent increase planning. Additionally, the owner cannot pass on banked rent increases to a new owner when a property is sold, with the exception of transfers through inheritance. 

Looking ahead to 2026, new requirements such as the “refrigerator law” (AB 628), requires rental owners to provide a working refrigerator and stove in rental units. This law goes into effect on January 1st and makes these appliances a basic habitability requirement. Owners are responsible for maintaining them in good working order, and they must repair or replace appliances within 30 days.

In the past five years alone, the volume and speed of these policy changes have only increased. A recond number of new bills that impact housing have been coming out out of Sacramento and for someone operating only a few units while balancing family responsibilities and another career, staying compliant has become almost impossible. Many small providers want to do the right thing, but they simply don’t have access to the same tools and resources available to larger operators.

At the same time, there has been an expansion of support services and protections for renters. Cities and counties have spend millions towards renter legal services, rent control programs, multi-family inspections, and a broad network of community-based organizations. However, this expansion has also created an unintended gap: while renters now receive more support and protection than ever, many small housing providers are left without the guidance they need to operate responsibly in a complex regulatory landscape receive steep penalties when they ultimately fail to comply. When new requirements roll out quickly with limited outreach, this disconnect leads to avoidable conflict, confusion, and misunderstandings. And that is exactly why associations like the East Bay Rental Housing Association (EBRHA) matter.

EBRHA exists to provide the education, resources, community, and advocacy towards legislators, that rental housing providers need to survive today’s rental market. Our mission is built on the idea that informed and supported rental owners create stronger, safer, and more stable rentals for everyone.

Education and support aren’t just about staying compliant, they prevent issues before it begins. When providers understand the rules and have access to modern tools and legal best practices, they can communicate more effectively with renters, minimize misunderstandings, and operate smoothly. And when they know where to turn for help, stressful situations become manageable instead of overwhelming. Supporting rental housing providers ultimately supports stable, safe, long-term housing for all East Bay residents.

Renew Now and Save!

To support our growing education programs, advocacy work, and member services, EBRHA will be increasing membership prices in 2026. But current members can lock in their 2025 annual rate by renewing their membership before December 31, 2025.

Even if your membership does not expire this year, you can renew early and avoid the upcoming rate increase.

End-of-Year Renewal Promotions (Expires 12/31):

• Members for less than 10 years: Renew now and lock in your current annual rate through 2027.
  
  

• Members for more than 10 years: Renew now and your membership price will never increase. (Membership must remain active without lapsing.)

This is one of the strongest renewal opportunities we’ve ever offered, and it ensures that you continue receiving the support, tools, and advocacy needed to operate responsibly in the East Bay.

Why Realtors Should Join EBRHA

Realtors represent clients who buy, sell, and manage rental housing, which includes thousands of first-time investors entering the market each year. So, having a strong understanding of local rental laws is a professional necessity. To support your role in our rental housing community, EBRHA is offering a limited-time promotional membership for Realtors at just $299/year. 

Membership helps Realtors stay ahead of fair housing rules, rent control regulations, habitability standards, and local notice requirements, ensuring clients never face unexpected legal risks. With this knowledge, you can confidently explain operating costs, risk exposure, long-term returns, and the complexities of buying or selling properties with existing renters or relocation obligations. More importantly, EBRHA membership makes Realtors indispensable advisors. With access to expert guidance, policy updates, and a strong advocacy network, you can better support clients through every step of their real estate journey. As an added bonus, Realtor Members can purchase EBRHA memberships for their clients at half price, offering an exceptional closing gift that helps new rental owners start off informed, confident, and fully supported.

Whether your an owner who operates one unit or 100, or you are a Realtor supporting investor clients, EBRHA exists to help you succeed. The rental housing landscape isn’t getting simpler, but with the right knowledge and community behind you, you can navigate it with confidence.

Renew early, lock in your rate, and stay connected to ensure EBRHA remains your essential resource to the housing community.