California's New Post-Disaster Rules: What SB 610 Means for Landlords
The recent wildfires and natural disasters across California have put a spotlight on what happens when a rental property is damaged or destroyed. Senate Bill 610, effective in 2026, provides much-needed clarity on landlord obligations and tenant rights after a declared emergency.
Rent Obligations During Evacuations
Under SB 610, when a mandatory evacuation order is in place, tenants are not obligated to pay rent for the period they cannot occupy the unit. If tenants have prepaid rent covering the evacuation period, you as the landlord must refund that amount. This is a straightforward rule, but it requires landlords to be prepared to handle these situations financially.
What Happens After the Disaster?
Once the emergency has passed, landlords must hire licensed contractors for any remediation work and follow all applicable local guidelines. Rent cannot resume until the remediation is fully complete and the unit is safe for occupancy. Additionally, tenants have the right to return to their unit at their pre-disaster rent amount. You cannot use a disaster as an opportunity to raise the rent.
An Important Clarification
Here's something many landlords may not realize: you are not required to rebuild a unit that has been fully or partially destroyed. SB 610 does not impose a rebuilding mandate. However, if you choose to restore the unit and re-rent it, the returning tenant's rights kick in.
Prepare Now, Not Later
The best time to prepare for a disaster is before one happens. Review your insurance coverage to make sure it accounts for these new obligations. Create a disaster response plan that includes a list of licensed contractors you can call immediately. Having these pieces in place will help you respond quickly and stay compliant.
Our team at Landlord Solutions San Diego can help you build a disaster preparedness plan tailored to your properties. Don't wait until it's too late.
Need help staying compliant? Contact Landlord Solutions San Diego at (619) 259-0720 or visit www.LandlordsolutionsSD.com
