California 2021-2022 Regular Session

California Senate Bill SB1026

Introduced
2/15/22  
Introduced
2/15/22  
Refer
2/23/22  
Refer
2/23/22  
Refer
3/15/22  
Refer
3/15/22  
Refer
3/23/22  
Refer
3/23/22  
Refer
3/24/22  
Refer
3/24/22  
Refer
3/28/22  
Refer
3/28/22  
Report Pass
4/6/22  
Report Pass
4/6/22  
Refer
4/7/22  
Refer
4/7/22  
Report Pass
5/3/22  
Report Pass
5/3/22  
Refer
5/4/22  
Report Pass
5/19/22  
Engrossed
5/23/22  
Engrossed
5/23/22  
Refer
5/27/22  
Refer
6/8/22  
Report Pass
6/14/22  
Refer
6/15/22  
Report Pass
6/29/22  

Caption

Residential energy efficiency disclosure statement.

Impact

If passed, SB1026 will modify existing civil codes governing residential tenancies and energy efficiency standards in California. By requiring specific disclosures, the bill seeks to increase accountability among property owners regarding energy consumption, thereby potentially contributing to broader sustainability initiatives. The measure anticipates an evolution in rental practices that could foster a consciousness about energy efficiency and sustainability among both landlords and tenants.

Summary

SB1026, introduced by Senator Wieckowski, aims to enhance transparency in residential energy efficiency for prospective tenants in California. The bill mandates that owners or their agents must provide a residential energy efficiency disclosure statement to prospective tenants before entering into rental agreements or accepting fees. This is intended to improve the informed decision-making of tenants regarding the energy consumption of the properties they consider leasing. The provisions of the bill will take effect on January 1, 2024, giving the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission time to develop a standardized disclosure form and guidelines.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1026 appears largely positive among sustainability advocates who see the legislation as a step towards greater environmental responsibility. Proponents argue that by making energy efficiency information readily available to potential tenants, the bill not only enhances consumer rights but also promotes sustainable living practices. However, some stakeholders express concern regarding the administrative burden it may create for landlords, suggesting that it could lead to pushback from property owners wary of additional regulations.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding SB1026 focus on the implications of such disclosures for landlords and the additional responsibilities they entail. Critics argue that requiring extensive disclosures may complicate the renting process and potentially discourage investment in rental properties. Additionally, questions arise about the effectiveness of these disclosures in actually fostering significant changes in tenant behavior or in influencing their rental choices. This debate highlights the tension between promoting transparency and protecting landlords’ interests.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB382

Single-family residential property: disclosures.

CA AB2933

Multiunit residential structures and mixed-use residential and commercial structures: water conservation.

CA AB1533

Electricity.

CA AB968

Single-family residential property: disclosures.

CA AB3264

Energy: cost framework: residential rates: demand-side management programs report: electrical transmission grid study.

CA AB1072

Water conservation and efficiency: low-income residential customers.

CA SB48

Building Energy Savings Act.

CA SB284

Electricity: energization transparency and efficiency: wholesale distribution service.

CA SB755

Energy efficiency and building decarbonization programs.

CA SB795

Energy: building energy efficiency: heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning equipment sale registry and compliance tracking system: electronic statewide compliance documentation data repository.

Similar Bills

CA AB646

Rental property: disclosures: flood hazard areas: areas of potential flooding.

NJ A2929

Requires disclosure of lead drinking water hazards to tenants of residential units; prohibits landlords from obstructing replacement of lead service lines; concerns testing of certain property for lead drinking water hazards.

NJ S1034

Requires disclosure of lead drinking water hazards to tenants of residential units; prohibits landlords from obstructing replacement of lead service lines; concerns testing of certain property for lead drinking water hazards.

CT HB05321

An Act Concerning The Written Residential Disclosure Report, The Captive Insurance Company Established For Assisting With Crumbling Foundations And Funding For Lead Removal, Remediation And Abatement.

NJ A3712

Requires disclosure of lead drinking water hazards to tenants of residential units; prohibits landlords from obstructing replacement of lead service lines; concerns testing of residential units for lead drinking water hazards.

NJ S2695

Requires disclosure of lead drinking water hazards to tenants of residential units; prohibits landlords from obstructing replacement of lead service lines; concerns testing of residential rental units for lead drinking water hazards.

CA AB892

Transfers of real property.

CA AB1289

Real property disclosure requirements.