What’s Changing January 1, 2026: A California Landlord’s Compliance Checklist

January 1, 2026 isn’t just another new year for California landlords. It’s a compliance cliff. Multiple laws, deadlines, and code changes all converge on the same date—and missing any of them could mean fines, liability, or worse.

Here’s everything you need to know, organized by urgency.

1. SB 721 Balcony Inspection Deadline (URGENT)

Deadline: January 1, 2026 | Who it affects: Owners of apartment buildings with 3+ units that have exterior elevated elements (balconies, decks, walkways, stairways)

This is the big one. SB 721 requires a licensed architect, structural engineer, or certified inspector to inspect all exterior elevated elements (EEEs) that are more than six feet above ground and rely on wood or wood-based materials for structural support.

What Counts as an EEE

• Balconies
• Decks
• Porches
• Stairways
• Walkways
• Entry structures

What the Inspector Checks

• Load-bearing components and systems
• Waterproofing elements (flashings, membranes, coatings, sealants)
• Signs of water intrusion, dry rot, or structural deterioration
• Associated railings and guardrails

Non-Compliance Consequences

• Civil penalties up to $500 per day per violation
• Required disclosure to prospective buyers
• Potential liability if failure causes injury
• Emergency repairs ordered by local enforcement

If you haven’t scheduled your SB-721 inspection yet, do it now. Qualified inspectors are booking out weeks in advance.

2. AB 628: Stoves & Refrigerators Required

Effective: January 1, 2026 | Who it affects: All California landlords, for any lease entered into, renewed, or amended on or after this date

AB 628 adds working stoves and refrigerators to California’s habitability requirements. For the first time, these appliances are legally required—not optional amenities.

Requirements

• A working stove capable of safely generating heat for cooking
• A working refrigerator capable of safely storing food
• Both maintained in good working order
• Recalled appliances must be repaired or replaced within 30 days of notice

Exemptions

• Permanent supportive housing
• SRO units with shared kitchens
• Residential hotels with shared cooking facilities
• Transitional and supportive housing

3. 2025 Title 24 Building Code Takes Effect

Effective: January 1, 2026 | Who it affects: Anyone submitting building permit applications on or after this date

California’s triennial building code update takes effect. Any permit application submitted on or after January 1, 2026 must comply with the 2025 California Building Standards Code (Title 24).

If you’re planning renovations, ADU construction, or any permitted work, this matters. Projects submitted before January 1 can still be reviewed under the 2022 code.

Key Changes

• Updated energy efficiency requirements
• New electrical capacity standards
• Revised fire safety provisions
• Updated accessibility requirements

4. AB 1414: Bulk Internet Opt-Out

Effective: January 1, 2026 | Who it affects: Landlords who include internet service in rent

AB 1414 requires landlords who bundle internet service with rent to give tenants the option to opt out. If a tenant opts out, you must reduce their rent by the actual cost of the internet service.

5. AB 414: Security Deposit Refund Rules

Effective: January 1, 2026 | Who it affects: All California landlords

AB 414 updates security deposit refund procedures:

• Landlords may return deposits electronically if the tenant agrees in writing
• Multiple tenants can designate one person to receive the refund
• New documentation requirements for itemized deductions

Quick Reference: January 2026 Deadlines

Law/Code	Who’s Affected	Urgency
SB 721	3+ unit apartments with balconies/decks	CRITICAL
AB 628	All CA landlords (new/renewed leases)	HIGH
Title 24	Anyone pulling permits after 1/1/26	MEDIUM
AB 1414	Landlords bundling internet with rent	LOW
AB 414	All CA landlords	LOW

Master Compliance Checklist

SB 721 Balcony Inspections

• Identify all exterior elevated elements on your property
• Schedule inspection with qualified inspector before deadline
• Budget for potential repairs if issues are found
• File inspection report with local building department

AB 628 Appliances

• Inventory all units for stoves and refrigerators
• Purchase appliances for any units currently without them
• Set up recall tracking system (CPSC alerts)
• Update lease templates with appliance provisions

Title 24 Building Code

• If planning permitted work, decide whether to submit before or after January 1
• Consult with contractor/architect about which code applies to your project
• Verify local jurisdiction deadlines (some require earlier submission)

AB 1414 Internet

• Review current internet bundling arrangements
• Create opt-out notice and process
• Update lease templates with opt-out provision

AB 414 Security Deposits

• Review current deposit refund process
• Set up electronic refund capability
• Create written agreement template for alternative refund methods

January 1, 2026 brings a significant compliance burden. The stakes are highest for SB 721—that deadline has real teeth, with daily fines and liability exposure for non-compliance.

If you’re not sure where your properties stand on any of these requirements, now is the time to find out. A professional inspection can identify balcony/deck issues, verify appliance condition, and catch other habitability problems before they become violations.

About LA Building Inspections & Compliance

We help LA landlords prepare for compliance deadlines including SB-721 balcony inspections, RHHP prep, and habitability assessments. Questions? Contact us at (626) 214-5929 or nathan@larentalinspections.com.