Changes to California law (specifically, Cal. Civ. Code Section 1950.5(g)-(h)) effective this year will obligate residential landlords to photographically document the condition of rental units at the outset and conclusion of tenancies.
Residential landlords desiring to preserve their right to deduct the costs of repairs and cleanings from their tenants’ security deposits must document the condition of a rental unit by taking photographs of the rental unit at the following times:
- Starting April 1 of this year, photographs must be taken both: (1) after regaining possession from a tenant but before making repairs or cleanings they will deduct from or claim against the tenant’s security deposit; and (2) once such repairs or cleanings are completed.
- Photographs additionally must be taken immediately before, or at the inception of, any tenancy beginning on or after July 1, 2025.
To deduct the cost of repairs or cleanings, landlords will need to provide the required photographs (by mail, email, computer flash drive or online link) and a written explanation of the cost of the repairs and cleanings.
Owners and managers of California residential real property should consider consulting with legal counsel to update procedures and practices for compliance with these new requirements.
