San Diego’s coastal appeal and strong job market make it a hotspot for new tenants, with over half the population in rental housing. While this creates opportunities for landlords, it also brings legal duties.
Many states, including California, enforce local ordinances that require landlords to disclose information within a set period. States require landlords to disclose details such as lead paint risks to help renters make an informed decision.
Ignoring these rules can result in housing code violations, fines, actual damages, treble damages, or even imprisonment.
Required Landlord Disclosures in San Diego
San Diego landlords must comply with both state law and federal law when it comes to required disclosures. Here are the most critical disclosures required by law:
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
Federal law requires landlords of rental units built before 1978 to provide tenants with a disclosure form warning of the risks associated with lead-based paint and lead poisoning. A pamphlet issued by the federal government, as well as any known reports, must be included in a separate document.
Mold and Environmental Hazards
California law requires landlords to notify tenants of any mold exceeding legal requirements, especially if it could cause health issues. Disclosure of volatile organic compounds, known defects, and environmental hazards, such as asbestos, is also required.
Flood Zone Status
If a property is located within a designated flood zone, landlords must inform tenants of this fact through the lease agreement. This is part of specific disclosures intended to warn tenants of potential damage risks.
Death on the Property
Under state law, if someone died in the unit within the past three years, landlords must disclose this information to prospective tenants before signing the rental agreement.
Pest and Bed Bug Disclosure
San Diego landlords must disclose any history or presence of bed bugs. If pest control treatments are scheduled, landlords must inform tenants about the chemicals used and applicable safety procedures.
Demolition and Structural Problems
If the property has a demolition permit or structural problems, disclosure laws require landlords to inform prospective tenants before they move in.
Utilities and Shared Costs
If utilities are shared between units, the lease agreement must clearly explain the allocation method. This includes any nonrefundable fees, such as a pet deposit or service charge.
Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Working carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors must be installed and disclosed. Landlords must also provide a statement of compliance.
Smoking Policy
California law requires landlords to provide tenants with the rental property's smoking policy, especially for multi-unit housing.
Registered Sex Offenders Notice
Landlords are obligated to inform tenants where to access the federal government database for registered sex offenders as part of their required landlord disclosures.
Why Proper Disclosures Matter
When a landlord fails to make certain disclosures about the property's condition, it can violate tenants' rights and lead to serious consequences such as loss of the security deposit or legal action.
In states with strict rent control laws, landlords are required to provide tenants with all necessary information. A landlord's failure to comply with these rules can result in significant penalties.
Stay Compliant with Expert Help
Understanding San Diego’s local law and meeting strict disclosure requirements can be challenging. Whether you're managing a single room or larger real estate investments, staying compliant is essential.
Investment Safe Property Management is here to help—from handling legal duties to connecting you with a trusted landlord-tenant attorney.
We simplify the process, ensure compliance before a tenant moves in, and protect your investment. Reach out today to make landlord responsibilities hassle-free.
Additional Resources
- Considerations for Allowing Pets in Your San Diego Rental: Pros and Cons
- Handling Late Rent Fees: When to Be Flexible and When to Enforce