California Law AB 1916 to Help Self-Storage Operators Deal With Evicted Tenants, Amend Rental Agreements

Assembly Bill 1916 (AB 1916), which makes it easier for California self-storage operators to deal with tenants who are evicted for a reason other than non-payment of rent, takes effect on Jan. 1. Passed by Governor Gavin Newsom in July, AB 1916 allows an operator to remove the evicted person’s property if the tenant fails to vacate their space within the stated time frame, according to an Oct. 31 legislative alert email from the California Self Storage Association (CSSA) to its members.

AB 1916 eliminates the need for a self-storage operator to file an unlawful-detainer (eviction) lawsuit when a tenant fails to remove their property from the facility after their rental agreement is terminated. Instead, it establishes a self-help process that doesn’t require the courts. Under this law, an operator must send two notices to the tenant before destroying, disposing of or selling the property.

AB 1916 also allows self-storage operators to amend their rental agreement with at least 30 days’ written notice to tenants. If a tenant continues to store their property at the facility after the effective date stated in the notice, the amended contract becomes legally binding, even without the customer’s signature, the alert stated.

The CSSA is hosting a webinar about the new law for its members on Dec. 17, presented by self-storage attorney Carlos Kaslow. Registration is available through the association website.

Related:Lewiston, ID, Self-Storage Owner Sues City for Negligence After Reservoir Rupture

CSSA is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to supporting the self-storage industry in California. The group offers educational events, networking opportunities, legislative advocacy and more.

Source: California Legislative Information, AB1916