San Jose's Apartment Rent Ordinance applies to buildings of three or more units built before September 7, 1979 — roughly 38,000 apartments. The cap is a flat 5% per year, one increase per 12 months, and landlords must register rents with the city.
No. An increase not taken in a year cannot be added to a later year under the ARO.
California landlord-tenant laws · All states · Rent increase notice & lease templates · Landlord calculators
My Rental Spot drafts the notice, tracks the 12-month clock and updates the lease — free.
Last reviewed September 15, 2026 against City of San José — Rent Stabilization Program. General information for landlords and renters, not legal advice; local rules can add requirements.