Legislative Update - March 3, 2022

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Rent Increase Limitations & The New CPI
Recently, SCRHA has received many calls asking about the “new CPI.” We want to help you plan ahead without making mistakes that could open you up to a lawsuit. As a reminder, for rent increases that take effect prior to August 1, the 9.1% limitation will continue to apply. While the reports that set the new CPI are typically available in mid-March or April, depending on where a rental property is located, that number CANNOT apply to rent increases until August 1 or later.

As soon as the relevant reports become available and figures are verified, SCRHA will share that information with members and update its resource pages.

Regardless of the CPI, rent increases can never be more than 10% for properties subject to the rent caps. AB 1482 and the formula for rent caps can be complicated and if interpreted incorrectly, can lead to additional work or even resident complaints. For properties that may be exempt from rent caps, there are still notification requirements that must be adhered to in order for the exemption to apply.

Click here for more information or call SCRHA for Operational Advice. If you have questions, call 858.278.8070 to speak with an operational advisor before increasing rents or serving notices to avoid potentially costly mistakes.

Rental Assistance Update – Chula Vista Again Accepting Applications
New funding has allowed the City of Chula Vista and nonprofit partner SBCS to re-open the Emergency Rent and Utility Assistance Program (ERAP) to new applications through the month of March 2022. The application portal is now open and SBCS is processing previously submitted and newly submitted applications on a first come, first served basis, according to state-mandated priority guidelines. To learn more or apply, please visit www.chulavistaerap.com

While the City of San Diego recently reported additional funding, it is expected that much of that is already obligated to applicants already in the pipeline. Nevertheless, SCRHA continues to encourage members to apply on behalf of residents or assist with their applications.

SCRHA continues to advocate for additional rental assistance funding and is tracking measures at the state level that could provide much-needed assistance to renters and to property owners whose residents may not have qualified for the previous programs. More to come!
 

Share Your Opinion on the Future of City of San Diego Infrastructure
The City of San Diego is conducting a survey as part of its Build Better SD initiative. Take a short survey and let the city know where you think investments should be made. English Survey | Spanish Survey