San Francisco’s rent control provides the following key protections: 

1. Limits on Rent Increases

Landlords can only increase rent up to the allowable yearly limit set by the city. Any rent increase beyond this cap must be justified under strict criteria, such as approved capital improvements. 

2. Eviction Protections 

Under the Rent Ordinance, landlords may only evict tenants for specific reasons, known as “just cause.” These include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• Failure to pay rent 

• Breach of lease terms 

• Landlord or immediate family wanting to move into the unit (owner move-in) 

• Withdrawal of the unit from the rental market (Ellis Act evictions) 

If no-fault evictions occur, tenants are entitled to relocation assistance payments per Section 37.9C. For example, under state l 

3. Tenant Petition Process

A rent-controlled San Fransciso tenant can petition the San Francisco Rent Board for relief based on a landlord’s violation of their rights, including: 

• a) A reduction in rent due to unresolved habitability issue or reduced housing services; 
• b) A request for determination of lawful rent, if a rent increase appears illegal;  
• c) A reporting by the tenant of an attempted illegal eviction; and more. 

4. Protections from Harassment 

Harassment, such as threats, illegal lockouts, or efforts to coerce tenants into leaving their homes, is prohibited. Tenants experiencing harassment may file a civil action for damages, using the assistance of a landlord-tenant attorney, or pursue their matter through small claims.