Can landlords use software to set my rent in Berkeley?
Not with rivals' private data; that's banned.
Landlords can't share private rent data through an app to set prices.
Why, and the exact law
From Berkeley Mun. Code ch. 13.63, read Oct 1, 2026.Show the law
“It shall be unlawful for a landlord to use a coordinated pricing algorithm described
in subsection A when setting rents or occupancy levels for residential dwelling units in
the City of Berkeley …”
Berkeley Mun. Code ch. 13.63 · berkeleyca.gov · found word for word in the source
Who can help
Ask the Berkeley Rent BoardFree counselors explain your options, by phone or in person.Berkeley Rent Board
Get free legal helpIf your landlord won't fix it.LawHelpCA
State law applies here too. Where both cover a rental, the stricter city rule usually wins; each rule below says so.
Berkeley lawIn force
Prohibition on coordinated pricing algorithms to set rents (BMC ch. 13.63)
Can landlords use software to set my rent?
Not with rivals' private data; that's banned.
Landlords can't share private rent data through an app to set prices.
Who it covers
Exemptions: Excludes aggregated anonymous reports, affordable-housing rent/income limit tools, market research for financing, appraisals, and software research/testing/training.
In force since
Jan 2026
Enacted
Dec 2, 2025
The law, word for word
“It shall be unlawful for a landlord to use a coordinated pricing algorithm described
in subsection A when setting rents or occupancy levels for residential dwelling units in
the City of Berkeley …”
AB 325 / SB 763 – Common pricing algorithm prohibition (Cartwright Act)
Can landlords use software to set my rent?
Not as part of price-fixing between landlords.
Using a shared pricing tool to collude, or pushing others to use its prices, is illegal.
Who it covers
Covers: Any person using or distributing a common pricing algorithm; not limited to housing; excludes end consumers.
In force since
Jan 1, 2026
Enacted
Oct 6, 2025
The law, word for word
“It shall be unlawful for a person to use or distribute a common pricing algorithm as part of a contract, combination in the form of a trust, or conspiracy to restrain trade or commerce in violation of this chapter …”