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AB 2801: What California’s Security Deposits Law Means for Landlords

California’s Assembly Bill 2801 (AB 2801) is now in effect, bringing in new compliance requirements for landlords and property managers—especially when it comes to security deposit deductions.
One key requirement? Photo documentation at every stage of a tenancy.
If you’re using or considering myInspections, this change is especially relevant. Here’s what you need to know and how our app can help.
What California’s Security Deposits Law Means for Landlords & Property Managers

Quick Overview of AB 2801

AB 2801 introduces:
  • Limits on what landlords can deduct from security deposits
  • Mandatory photographic documentation
  • Increased tenant rights around inspections
  • Penalties for non-compliance, including forfeiting deposit deductions
But for now, let’s focus on the photo requirements—because that’s where myInspections can make your life easier.

Key Dates You Need to Know

  • April 1, 2025: Photo requirements for move-out and post-cleaning/repair are now in effect.
  • July 1, 2025: New tenancies starting on or after this date must include move-in photos.

What Photos Are Required?

Under AB 2801, landlords must take and store photos at three critical stages:
  1. Move-Out Photos (from April 1, 2025 onward)
    After the tenant has vacated—but before any cleaning or repairs are done.
  2. Post-Repair or Cleaning Photos
    To show the state of the property after any work has been completed.
  3. Move-In Photos (from July 1, 2025 onward)
    Required before or at the start of a tenancy to document the original condition.
You’ll also need to provide these photos—along with an itemised statement and any receipts—if you deduct anything from the deposit.

How myInspections Helps

myInspections makes it easy:
  • Take photos directly in the app and keep them tied to the inspection report
  • Use date-stamped documentation to build a clear record
  • Export or share the full report with tenants, including all necessary proof
You can even create templates to ensure your move-in and move-out processes are consistent every time.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Landlords who fail to meet these photo requirements risk:
  • Losing the right to retain any of the security deposit
  • Legal action, including up to 2x the deposit amount in statutory damages

Next Steps

  • Start using myInspections to photograph properties at each required stage
  • Create or update your move-in/move-out inspection templates
  • Make sure your team is trained and ready before the July 1 move-in requirement

Final Thoughts

AB 2801 brings big changes—but you don’t have to face them alone.
With myInspections, you can:
  • Clearly document inspections
  • Save time
  • Avoid disputes
New to myInspections? Start a free trial today.

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The information contained in this article is exclusively for promotional purposes. It does not in any way constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as the basis for any legal action or contractual dealings. The information is not and does not attempt to be, a comprehensive account of the relevant law. If you require legal advice, you should seek independent legal counsel. myInspections does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.

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