In the ever-evolving landscape of California’s housing laws, a significant shift may be on the horizon. Proposed legislation could require landlords to provide refrigerators and stoves in rental properties, a change that could ease the financial burden on many renters in Southern California.

The Current State of Rental Agreement Norms

When renting a home in Southern California, tenants typically prepare for several initial expenses: first and last month’s rent along with a security deposit. However, many new renters find themselves needing to secure essential appliances like refrigerators and stoves on their own. Currently classified as amenities rather than necessities, these appliances are often omitted from rental agreements, placing the financial responsibility squarely on the shoulders of tenants.

Proposed Changes to the Law

The legislation, known as Assembly Bill 628, is spearheaded by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Hawthorne), who advocates for the recognition of refrigerators and stoves as essential appliances. If passed, this bill would place the responsibility for these appliances on landlords, requiring them to supply and maintain them in rental units starting January 1, 2026.

McKinnor highlights the pressing economic challenges faced by renters, noting, “We know that people are really struggling out there with the high cost of food, gas, household goods, and on top of that, lots of people spend more than half their income on rent.” The goal of this legislation is to reduce the number of financial concerns for new tenants.

Possible Impact on Rental Prices

The question of whether such a requirement would drive up rental prices is complex. In Los Angeles, some apartments are subject to the Rent Stabilization Ordinance, which limits how much landlords can increase rents annually. However, exceptions exist that could allow for significant rent hikes in newer or exempt properties. Current statistics show that average monthly rents in Los Angeles are approximately $2,347, with some neighborhoods exceeding $4,000.

The Legislative Journey

As AB 628 progresses through the legislative process, it is currently under review and revision, needing approval from both the Assembly and the Senate before reaching the governor’s desk in the fall. The outcome of this bill could reshape the rental landscape in California, addressing long-standing discrepancies in rental agreements.