California’s domestic violence housing protections expanded under SB 1051, a law that took effect in 2025 and continues shaping landlord responsibilities as we move into 2026. The law strengthens how landlords must respond when a tenant is experiencing abuse—especially around lock changes, documentation, and retaliation protections.
For renters in high-demand markets like San Jose, Oakland, Palo Alto, and Concord, these rules offer additional safety and clarity. For landlords, especially in Santa Clara County, San Mateo County, and Alameda County, SB 1051 creates specific procedures that need to be built into your leasing and property management systems.
Below is a clear breakdown of what SB 1051 requires, why it matters, and how it affects local Bay Area rental markets.
What SB 1051 Actually Requires
SB 1051 does not change the long-standing early-termination rules under Civil Code §1946.7. Instead, it expands safety-related obligations for landlords when a tenant is experiencing domestic violence or similar abuse.
Under SB 1051, landlords must:
• Change the unit’s locks within 24 hours when a tenant submits proper documentation
• Accept documentation from a broader list of qualified professionals
• Ensure no retaliation or adverse action based on a tenant invoking these protections
• Maintain confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive information
For further details, read the official SB 1051 bill here.
What Hasn’t Changed — Early Lease Termination Rules
Tenants fleeing domestic violence have long had the right to terminate a lease early under Civil Code §1946.7. This rule remains the same in 2026.
Tenants may:
• Give written notice and documentation
• Pay no more than 14 days of rent after the date of notice
• Leave without penalties or early-termination fees
For full details, see the official text of Civil Code §1946.7 here.
Why These Protections Matter for Tenants
For tenants across the Bay Area, SB 1051 offers clearer, faster safety measures. Domestic violence situations often escalate quickly, and delayed lock changes can leave tenants at risk.
SB 1051 ensures that tenants can:
• Secure their unit within 24 hours
• Use documentation from more accessible professionals
• Avoid retaliation when asserting their rights
What Landlords Need To Prepare For in 2026
Owners should make sure their teams and systems are ready for these responsibilities. SB 1051 isn’t complex, but it does require a quick and organized response.
Key steps for landlords:
• Set up a 24-hour lock-change process with a locksmith or in-house staff
• Update leases to reflect current California domestic violence protections
• Train property managers on acceptable documentation
• Establish a written workflow for receiving, logging, and responding to requests
• Review anti-retaliation policies to avoid legal risk
FAQ
1. Is the 14-day early lease termination rule new?
No. It comes from Civil Code §1946.7, which has been in place for years.
2. What specifically did SB 1051 change?
SB 1051 added new lock-change requirements, expanded who can certify abuse, and strengthened anti-retaliation protections.
3. Does this apply to all rental types?
Yes—single-family rentals, ADUs, duplexes, and multifamily properties across the Bay Area.
4. Can landlords charge a fee for early termination?
No. Under §1946.7, tenants owe no more than 14 days of rent after notice and cannot be penalized.
5. How fast must a landlord change the locks?
Within 24 hours once proper documentation is provided.
R&Z Group supports property owners throughout San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Mateo, Burlingame, Daly City, Hayward, Oakland, Berkeley, and Concord.
