AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords, Pasadena Property Management, Lee & Associates

What California Property Owners Must Know

AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords

California rental law changed on January 1, 2026, with the passage of Assembly Bill 628. This law updates statewide habitability standards for rental housing. Landlords must now provide essential kitchen appliances in most residential rental units.

This guide explains the AB 628 Checklist for Landlords and outlines what property owners must do. It also explains why professional property management plays a critical role in compliance.

 

What Is California Assembly Bill 628

Assembly Bill 628 updates California Civil Code Section 1941.1. The law now defines a working stove and refrigerator as required elements of a habitable rental unit. Before AB 628, landlords could choose whether to provide these appliances. Many landlords listed them as optional amenities. That approach is no longer allowed for covered rental units.

Under AB 628, landlords must provide and maintain a functioning stove and refrigerator. These appliances must remain operational throughout the tenancy. The law applies to leases signed, renewed, or amended on or after January 1, 2026.

 

Why AB 628 Matters to Landlords

AB 628 creates a statewide standard for rental kitchens. This change impacts legal compliance, tenant expectations, and property operations. A unit without a working stove or refrigerator may be considered uninhabitable. That status can trigger tenant remedies and enforcement actions.

Tenants now expect these appliances as a baseline feature. Properties that fail to comply risk disputes and increased vacancy. Following an AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords reduces legal exposure and protects rental income.

 

AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords

This AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords outlines practical steps every property owner should follow.

1. Review All Rental Units

    • Inspect each rental unit you own or manage. Confirm the presence of a stove and refrigerator in every covered unit.
    • Document appliance condition, model numbers, and installation dates. Maintain inspection records for future reference.
    • This documentation supports compliance if questions arise.

 

2. Verify Appliance Functionality

    • Test each stove to confirm it heats and operates safely. Test each refrigerator to confirm proper cooling and food storage.
    • Replace or repair non-functioning appliances immediately. Delays may create habitability violations.
    • The AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords requires proactive maintenance, not reactive repairs.

 

3. Monitor Appliance Recalls

    • Landlords must repair or replace recalled appliances within thirty days of notice.
    • Recall obligations apply even if the appliance still works. Monitoring manufacturer notices is now part of compliance.
    • Property managers often track recalls more efficiently than individual owners.

 

4. Update Lease Agreements

    • Leases must reflect that the landlord provides a stove and refrigerator.
    • Lease language should explain maintenance responsibilities and reporting procedures.
    • Updated leases reduce confusion and support the enforcement of property rules.
    • The AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords includes lease review as a core step.

 

5. Understand the Tenant-Provided Refrigerator Option

    • Tenants may bring their own refrigerator only with a written agreement at lease signing.
    • The lease must state that the tenant requested this option voluntarily.
    • The lease must assign maintenance responsibility to the tenant.
    • With thirty days’ written notice, the lease must allow the tenant to request a landlord-provided refrigerator.
    • Without proper documentation, the landlord remains responsible.

 

6. Plan Maintenance and Replacement Budgets

    • Stoves and refrigerators now qualify as habitability items.
    • Budget for ongoing maintenance, repairs, and replacement cycles.
    • Deferred maintenance increases liability and tenant dissatisfaction.
    • The AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords emphasizes planning over emergency responses.

 

7. Train Property Management Staff

    • Property managers and leasing agents must understand AB 628 requirements.
    • Training should cover inspections, lease disclosures, and recall response procedures.
    • Consistency across properties prevents compliance gaps.
    • Professional property management improves accuracy and response time.

 

8. Identify Exempt Properties

    • Some housing types are exempt from AB 628 requirements.
    • Exempt properties may include supportive housing, shared kitchen units, and residential hotels.
    • Maintain records that confirm exemption status if applicable.
    • Never assume an exemption without verification.

 

Why Property Management Is Critical for AB 628 Compliance

AB 628 increases operational complexity for landlords. Property managers help owners implement the AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords efficiently. Managers conduct inspections, coordinate repairs, and document compliance actions. They also update leases and ensure proper disclosures.

Professional management reduces legal risk and administrative burden.Landlords who self manage face a higher risk of missed requirements.

 

Common Mistakes Landlords Should Avoid

Many landlords delay appliance replacement until tenant complaints occur. Others fail to update lease language after January 1, 2026. Some landlords rely on outdated local standards instead of the statewide law. Following the AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords prevents these errors.

 

Final Thoughts and Disclaimer

The AB 628 Compliance Checklist for Landlords provides a structured approach to meeting California’s updated habitability requirements. Landlords should inspect units, update leases, and plan for appliance maintenance before issues arise. Working with experienced property management professionals supports consistent compliance and protects long term property value.

This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords should consult a qualified real estate attorney or local housing authority for guidance specific to their property and circumstances.

 

Contact Lee Pasadena Management for a consultation on how we can stabilize occupancy, enhance asset value, and future-proof your properties in 2026 and beyond. Connect with our property management experts today! Check out our services page to learn how our experienced team can help optimize your commercial property portfolio.

 

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Lee Pasadena Management
(626) 275-6260
[email protected]

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Lee & Associates Pasadena Commercial Property Management, Inc.