A New Era for California Renters
Introduction to the Law
Starting next year, you won’t have to comb through Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for a decent used refrigerator because your California apartment doesn’t come with one. That’s because on Monday Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 628 into law, requiring landlords to equip their rentals with a refrigerator and a stove that are in good working condition.
The Inspiration Behind the Bill
Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Hawthorne), whose 61st District covers communities from Inglewood to Marina del Rey, previously told The Times she was inspired to author the bill when she realized refrigerators and stoves were legally labeled as amenities. A 2022 Times analysis found that California has more apartments on the market without refrigerators than any other state.
Existing State Law
Existing state law requires landlords to maintain certain “standard characteristics” for a dwelling unit including adequate hot and cold running water, heat, and weather proofing. McKinnor wanted to include a fridge and stove as necessities for a rental unit to be considered habitable. Landlords cannot have occupants in a rental “without a refrigerator just like they can’t have you in there without hot running water or a heater,” McKinnor said.
Requirements of the New Law
Under the new law, landlords must provide a stove capable of generating heat for cooking and a refrigerator capable of safely storing food for new leases starting Jan. 1, 2026. The costs associated with moving into a new apartment — first month’s rent and security deposit — can be a burden for renters, especially in the city of Los Angeles, where the average monthly rent is $2,795, about $700 higher than the national average, according to Zillow.
Benefits for Renters
With this law, McKinnor said, renters will have one less payment to think about when moving into their new home. This change aims to alleviate some of the financial stress associated with renting in California, particularly for those who are already struggling to make ends meet.
Conclusion
The signing of Assembly Bill 628 into law marks a significant step forward for renters in California. By requiring landlords to provide a refrigerator and stove in good working condition, the state is recognizing these appliances as essential components of a habitable dwelling unit. This move is expected to bring relief to many renters who have previously had to bear the additional expense of purchasing or renting these necessary items.
FAQs
What does the new law require landlords to provide?
The new law requires landlords to provide a refrigerator and a stove that are in good working condition for new leases starting Jan. 1, 2026.
When does the law take effect?
The law takes effect on January 1, 2026, for new leases.
How will this law benefit renters?
This law will benefit renters by reducing the financial burden associated with moving into a new apartment, as they will no longer need to purchase or rent a refrigerator and stove.
Are there any exceptions to the law?
The article does not mention any exceptions to the law, but it’s always best to consult the official legislation or a legal expert for specific details and potential exemptions.
How does this law compare to existing state law?
The new law expands on existing state law by including refrigerators and stoves as necessary items for a rental unit to be considered habitable, similar to hot and cold running water, heat, and weatherproofing.
