📸📸 New California Law: Move-In Photo Documentation Now Required for Landlords – AB 2801
Effective July 1, 2025 | By Attorney Alternative – Fresno’s Trusted Legal Document Assistant
Are you a California landlord in Fresno or the Central Valley? Starting July 1, 2025, a new California rental law—Assembly Bill 2801 (AB 2801)—requires you to take move‑in photo documentation of every rental unit before handing over the keys. These time‑stamped photographs are now a legal requirement for all new tenancies across the state.
This is more than a formality—it’s part of California’s push for increased tenant protections, and it directly impacts your ability to withhold security deposits for damage.
If you’re a property owner, property manager, or landlord in Fresno County, read on for a full breakdown of AB 2801 and how to stay compliant with California’s landlord‑tenant laws.
What Is AB 2801?
AB 2801 expands on existing California landlord requirements related to rental property condition documentation. Earlier in 2025, landlords were required to take move‑out photos and post‑repair photos before deducting from a tenant’s security deposit.
As of July 1, 2025, the law adds a new step:
Landlords must also take time‑stamped move‑in photos of the rental property and provide a copy to the new tenant. These photos serve as an official record of the unit’s condition at lease signing.
This amendment is meant to establish a complete visual timeline of the property from move‑in to move‑out, helping both landlords and tenants avoid disputes.
When Does It Apply?
‑ Effective Date: July 1, 2025
‑ Applies to: All new leases or rental agreements starting on or after July 1, 2025
‑ Not retroactive to existing tenants or leases signed before this date
As a best practice, we recommend landlords begin voluntarily adopting this process early— especially in competitive housing markets like Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, Merced, and Madera.
What Should Be Included in the Move‑In Photos?
To comply with AB 2801 and protect your interests as a landlord: Use high‑quality, time‑stamped photos
Document every room, including:
‑ Floors, walls, baseboards, ceilings
‑ Windows and doors
‑ Kitchens and bathrooms
‑ Appliances (refrigerator, stove, dishwasher)
‑ Fixtures (sinks, toilets, shower/tub, light fixtures)
‑ Pre‑existing wear or damage
‑ Outdoor areas such as patios, garages, and storage units
All images must be delivered to the tenant—ideally by email, digital link, or cloud‑based file share—with timestamps intact.
Why Is AB 2801 Important for Landlords?
This law offers legal protection for Fresno landlords and Central Valley property managers:
‑ Supports legal deposit deductions
‑ Protects against false damage claims
‑ Documents that the unit was in rent‑ready condition
‑ Complies with California’s security deposit law under Civil Code § 1950.5
Landlords who fail to provide proper documentation may forfeit their right to deduct from the tenant’s security deposit—even if damage is present.
How Fresno Landlords Should Prepare
To meet AB 2801 compliance standards, landlords should:
‑ Update move‑in checklists to include required photo documentation
‑ Enable timestamp settings on all camera devices or apps
‑ Create tenant‑specific photo folders with backup copies
‑ Use a Photo Receipt Acknowledgment form signed by the tenant
‑ Train your staff, leasing agents, or third‑party property managers
Final Thoughts from Fresno’s Paralegal Expert
The move‑in photo requirement under AB 2801 is another reason why California landlord‑ tenant law is becoming increasingly complex. But with the right systems and support in place, landlords can stay compliant and protect their investments.
At Attorney Alternative, we provide:
‑ Lease updates and AB 2801 addendums
‑ Custom move‑in/move‑out checklists
‑ Legally compliant photo acknowledgment forms
‑ Document prep and filing for landlords in Fresno, Clovis, and surrounding counties
Need help preparing for AB 2801 compliance?
Visit us at www.FresnoParalegal.com or call (559) 389‑9441 for affordable, efficient landlord solutions.