Concord Updates Rent Control and Eviction Rules: What Housing Providers Need to Know

Recent changes to Concord’s rental housing regulations are prompting property owners and housing providers to review and adjust their lease agreements and operational procedures. On April 22, 2025, the Concord City Council adopted amendments to its Residential Tenant Protection Program Ordinance, bringing updates to local rent control and just cause eviction rules. These changes will take effect on May 22, 2025, and impact a wide range of rental housing providers in the city.

Key Changes in Concord’s Rent Control and Eviction Ordinance

Concord’s revised ordinance introduces several noteworthy adjustments that affect rental pricing, tenant rights, and compliance obligations:

1. New Cap on Rent Increases

A significant update is the implementation of a fixed 5% annual cap on rent increases for units covered by the ordinance. This replaces previous language that allowed greater flexibility depending on inflation. The fixed limit aims to provide predictability for both tenants and landlords while keeping rental rates in check.

2. Updated Eviction Exemptions

The new ordinance introduces eviction exemptions for small-scale housing providers. Landlords who own and lease out no more than two single-family homes or condominiums are now exempt from certain just cause eviction requirements. This is a substantial relief for mom-and-pop landlords seeking greater flexibility.

3. Revised Rent Registration and Notice Requirements

Landlords are now required to comply with updated rent registration guidelines and tenant notification procedures. These changes include stricter rules on delivering rent increase notices and documenting rental terms. Providers must ensure that all leases and communications align with the city’s revised compliance protocols.

4. Changes to Relocation Assistance

Relocation assistance rules have been refined to reflect the broader goals of tenant protection and housing stability. Landlords pursuing certain types of evictions must offer monetary relocation support depending on the tenant’s length of residency and unit type.

Why Compliance Matters Now More Than Ever

As Concord tightens its regulatory framework, staying compliant is not just a legal obligation but also a way to mitigate risk and preserve tenant relations. The new rules come amid a statewide trend of increasing tenant protections, and cities like Concord are taking a more proactive role in enforcement.

Property owners who fail to comply may face penalties, legal disputes, and delays in eviction processes, making proactive policy reviews critical. Small landlords, in particular, should pay close attention to their status under the exemption rules to avoid unnecessary liability.

Preparing for the May 22 Effective Date

With these changes becoming enforceable shortly, housing providers should:

• Review and revise lease agreements and tenant notices 
• Audit rent increase schedules for compliance with the 5% cap 
• Verify eligibility for eviction exemptions 
• Attend fair housing and compliance training if unfamiliar with local rules 

Stay informed and proactive—understanding Concord’s new ordinance is essential to operating successfully and lawfully in the current rental environment. Regular policy reviews and legal consultations can help ensure long-term compliance and stability in your rental operations.