What counts as a rent increase in California?
Anything that increases the tenant's monthly cost: base rent, parking fee, storage fee, pet rent, amenity fee, utility surcharge if previously included, or removal of a previously bundled service (gym, internet, water). Each requires the same advance notice (Cal. Civ. Code 827(b)). Bundling these into "rent" then raising them all together is the same as a rent increase. Cap calculations apply to the total change. California courts read attempts to disguise rent increases (e.g. "convenience fee") strictly against the landlord.
Source: Cal. Civ. Code 827(b)
This is an informational answer based on Cal. Civ. Code 827(b) as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a California-licensed attorney.