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It’s Hard to Rent in Burlingame. Do You Know the Tenant Protections and Rights in Burlingame?

Burlingame renters face many challenges. High housing costs, rent spikes, and complex rules can confuse tenants. The Law Firm For Tenant Rights, Inc. serves Burlingame residents from our San Francisco office. We review leases, inspect building histories, verify eviction notices, and defend tenants under state law. We guide you step by step.

People Live Here. Help Should Exist.

Burlingame is home to many renters in multi-unit buildings. According to city records, roughly 6,177 units are rented — about 5,089 are multi-unit, and nearly 5,031 of those were built before 1995. Do you know if your home qualifies for eviction protections or rent limits? We can help verify the age, type, and tenancy status of your unit to determine if your apartment is covered under state laws.

Even peaceful neighborhoods can hide rental issues. Have you received a sudden eviction notice? Seen your rent jump unexpectedly at renewal? We defend tenants facing illegal rent increases or eviction threats. We check notices, confirm legality, collect evidence, and advise on every step to protect your home.

Tenant legal support for renters near Burlingame

What Rights Renters Have — What You Can Do

Rules protect tenants and families in Burlingame. They prevent sudden rent hikes, unfair evictions, and unsafe conditions. Tenants have time to plan and options to fight back when landlords break the law.

Can My Rent Rise Anytime?

No. AB 1482 limits yearly rent increases for most covered units. Proper written notice must come first. If a landlord violates the law, tenants can challenge the increase and stop illegal hikes.

Do Landlords Have to Fix Problems?

Yes. Homes must be safe and livable. Your landlord cannot ignore plumbing, heating, windows, and basic safety. If they delay the repairs, you can report issues or use legal remedies. Document all requests with photos and messages.

Can Landlords Evict Me Without Reason?

Usually not. Evictions need a valid cause under AB 1482. Legal reasons include nonpayment, repeated lease violations, serious damage, owner move-ins, or withdrawal under the Ellis Act. Notices without proper cause can be challenged.

 Will I Get My Security Deposit Back?

Often yes. Landlords must return deposits with itemized deductions if applicable. Tenants can contest withholding and demand repayment. Legal guidance can help enforce your rights.

Can Landlords Walk In Whenever They Want?

No. Tenants have the right to privacy. Landlords must give notice before entry, except in emergencies. Inspections, repairs, or showings require proper notice. Illegal entry can be challenged.

What If My Landlord Scares or Harasses Me?

Harassment is illegal under California law. Threats, intimidation, or pressure to leave are prohibited. Keep records of calls, texts, and emails. Tenants can seek city or court intervention with documentation.

Can I Ask for Lease Changes?

Yes. Tenants can request fair modifications. You don’t have to accept unfair terms. Requests can include repairs, safety updates, or new clauses. Legal guidance helps negotiate safely and clearly.

Questions Come Fast. We Give Clear Answers.

Is my home protected by AB 1482 in Burlingame?

f it’s a multi-unit rental, not built in the last 15 years, and not owner-occupied or exempt, likely yes. We verify details for you.

Can my landlord raise rent by 20% at renewal?

No. Covered units are limited to 5% + CPI (or 10%), whichever is lower.

What if they still raise rent more?

We can review the notice, challenge it, and help send formal objections or take legal action.

Can they evict me just because my lease ends?

Not under AB 1482. They need a valid legal cause.

My heating system broke — what can I do?

You can demand repair. If ignored, document it, and we’ll help file complaints or take legal action.

Call Early. Protect Your Burlingame Home.

Facing a rent increase, eviction notice, or unsafe living conditions? Call early. We review your case, explain your rights, and act quickly. Waiting can make problems worse. We stand with Burlingame tenants at every step.

State Rules Matter. Understand Them First.

Burlingame renters rely on state protections, since the city has no binding rent control. Do you know which rules apply? Here’s what tenants need to understand:

1. Burlingame Rent & AB 1482 Caps
  • AB 1482 (California Tenant Protection Act of 2019) requires landlords to provide “just cause” to evict covered tenants.
  • Annual rent increases are limited to 5% + CPI or 10%, whichever is lower.
  • Written notice must precede any rent increase.
  • Exemptions exist for new buildings, certain single-family homes, and owner-occupied duplexes.
 2. Just Cause and Eviction Rules

Landlords must have a legal reason to evict. Do you know what counts?

  • Nonpayment of rent.
  • Lease violations or repeated rule-breaking.
  • Serious damage to property or nuisance to neighbors.
  • Owner or relative moving in as allowed by law.
  • Withdrawal of units under the Ellis Act.
  • Major renovations or conversions that force tenants out.
3. Rent Increases & Timing

Can landlords raise rent whenever they want? Not in Burlingame.

  • Only one increase per 12 months unless both parties agree.
  • Proper written notice is required.
  • AB 1482 limits apply to most covered units. 
  • Tenants can request a county review if increases seem excessive.
4. Habitability, Repairs & Retaliation

Is your apartment safe and livable? State law protects you.

  • Tenants have the right to working plumbing, heating, windows, and pest control. 
  • Landlords must maintain units under California Civil Code §§ 1941–1942.
  • If ignored, tenants can report issues or use repair-and-deduct remedies.
  • Retaliation for complaints is illegal.
  • Official violations can pause eviction or rent actions.
5. Ellis Act & Rental Withdrawal

Can your building be removed from the rental market? State law governs this.  But whether the State law applies depends on local implementation. Call The Law Firm For Tenant Rights, Inc. to get advice on whether the Ellis Act applies to your jurisdiction. 

  • The Ellis Act allows landlords to remove rental units but requires proper notice.
  • Relocation assistance may be required depending on tenant eligibility.
  • Local Burlingame rules may require additional notice or steps before tenants must move.
6. Anti-Harassment & Coercion Protections

Are you being pressured to move? That may be illegal.

  • Burlingame tenants are protected from harassment under state law.
  • Landlords must issue truthful notices and follow proper procedures.
  • Harassment or bad-faith conduct can be used as a defense in eviction.
  • Keep copies of calls, texts, or documents that show coercion.