[CA] Can a landlord add RUBS utility charges to a month-to-month lease after a rent increase, and what notice is required?

CA Landlord-Tenant

How soon after a rent increase can I begin charging a tenant for utilities using RUBS?

January 12, 2026

Andres Sanchez

22,292 satisfied customers

View context

Solved

In California, changing terms of a month-to-month tenancy—such as adding utility charges—requires written notice, typically 30 days (California Civil Code § 827(a)). RUBS must be clearly disclosed and agreed to by the tenant before implementation (California Civil Code § 1940.2). You should provide a written notice explaining the RUBS system, how utilities will be calculated, and the effective date (at least 30 days out). Deliver it properly and allow the tenant to ask questions (California Civil Code § 827(c)).

California Rent Increase Notice Form

Create Document

Full Conversation

How soon after a rent increase can I begin charging a tenant for utilities using RUBS?

Lexi, Chatbot

When did you notify your tenant about the rent increase?

October 3, 2025.

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you already discussed RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing System) with the tenant?

No, not yet.

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the landlord-tenant lawyer should know?

I don’t know.

Andres Sanchez

Hi, I’m Andres Sanchez, an attorney. I understand you want to start charging utilities using RUBS after a rent increase. Have you discussed this with the tenant yet?

Yes, but I’m not sure how to bring it up. Is there a notice I give them?

Andres Sanchez

Laws vary by state. Where are you located, and do you have a lease?

Sacramento County, California.

Andres Sanchez

Is the lease written, and does it mention utility billing?

It’s now month-to-month. The lease doesn’t mention utilities.

Andres Sanchez

Have you had any prior discussions about introducing RUBS?

No.

Andres Sanchez

OK, thanks.

Andres Sanchez

22,292 satisfied customers

Welcome! Have a similar question?

12 lawyers online now

N Cal Atty

4.67 (7,831)

[VA] Can I evict someone with no lease after only one week of occupancy?

Answered 4 days ago

Jon

4.77 (556)

[KS] Can a landlord terminate a lease for domestic violence and animal cruelty?

Answered 5 days ago

Andres Sanchez

Attorney

4.73 (22,292)

[VA] Can my landlord deduct from my deposit for improper drywall repairs?

Answered 6 days ago

Disclaimer

By messaging AskaLawyer.com, you agree to our Terms and have read our Privacy Policy.

The information provided on AskaLawyer.com is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information presented, we make no guarantees regarding its completeness or applicability to your specific circumstances.

Use of this website does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and AskaLawyer.com or any of its attorneys. Communications through this website, including any responses from attorneys, are not privileged or confidential. For advice tailored to your individual situation, we recommend consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

AskaLawyer.com disclaims any liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this site. We are not responsible for any third-party content that may be accessed through this website. Reliance on any information provided herein is solely at your own risk.