San Diego Lease Agreement (2025)

• Regularly update lease agreements to reflect current laws and market conditions.
• Consider professional property management services to navigate complex local regulations.
• Utilize automated AI form assistance for drafting compliant lease agreements.
• Include clear clauses on maintenance responsibilities to prevent disputes.
• Ensure compliance with San Diego's unique property registration and inspection requirements.

San Diego's rental landscape in 2025 showcases a tight market with a vacancy rate hovering around 3.5%, indicating strong demand for rental properties. Neighborhoods like North Park, Hillcrest, and Mission Valley are particularly popular among young professionals and families. The rental demand is fueled by the city's robust job market, attractive lifestyle, and scenic beauty. Landlord-tenant dynamics are shaped by California's comprehensive legal framework, which emphasizes balanced rights and responsibilities. With rising housing costs, both parties are increasingly focused on secure, clear, and compliant lease agreements.

• Security deposit return within 21 days with itemized deductions according to Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5.
• Provide habitable premises, ensuring all essential repairs and maintenance are conducted timely, as mandated by California Civil Code §1941.1.
• Disclose lead-based paint hazards for properties built before 1978, adhering to federal and state regulations.
• Install and maintain functioning smoke detectors, per California Health and Safety Code §13113.7.
• Provide a written rental agreement for tenancies over one year as required by California law.
• Adhere to anti-discrimination laws under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act.

• Right to habitable premises under California housing code, ensuring a safe and livable environment.
• Protection against retaliation for exercising tenant rights, as per California Civil Code §1942.5.
• Right to privacy, with landlords required to provide 24-hour notice before entering the rental unit.
• Protection against unlawful eviction, following the legal process outlined in California Code of Civil Procedure §1161.
• Entitlement to a security deposit refund within 21 days of vacating, including an itemized list of any deductions.
• Right to request timely repairs, with the option to make repairs and deduct costs if the landlord fails to act.

San Diego's specific lease requirements include compliance with local ordinances such as the Residential Rental Property Registration and Inspection Program, which mandates registration and regular inspections for rental properties. While San Diego does not have citywide rent control, landlords must adhere to California's statewide rent cap under AB 1482, limiting annual rent increases. Understanding and meeting these local requirements is essential for landlords to operate legally and efficiently in San Diego.

State: California

City: San Diego

Document Type: Residential Lease