Rent increases in SF: what's legal and what's not
San Francisco’s Rent Ordinance limits increases for many covered tenancies. State law can also limit increases for some units outside local rent control. Exemptions and passthrough rules exist, so there is no safe citywide percentage to memorize.
When you receive an increase, save the notice and envelope. Check the address, effective date, current rent, stated amount, and reason. Compare it with your lease and the Rent Board’s current rates and forms. Do not assume a landlord’s label—“annual increase,” “market adjustment,” or “fee”—decides legality.
If you believe it is unlawful, get help before the effective date. The Rent Board offers information and forms for some local matters.
Source: SF Rent Board.