New California Law on Refrigerators & Stoves: What Tenants Should Know in 2025–2026

California continues to lead the way in improving housing quality, safety, and energy efficiency. One area that has recently seen important updates is appliances in rental housing, especially refrigerators and stoves. If you’re a tenant, here’s what you need to know — and what your rights are.

Why California Updated Appliance Rules

The state’s goal is simple:

• Improve tenant safety

• Reduce fire risks

• Increase energy efficiency

• Lower long-term utility costs

• Ensure rental homes meet habitability standards

Old or unsafe appliances are one of the most common causes of maintenance issues, electrical problems, and even fires. These updated standards help protect tenants and property owners alike.

Are Landlords Required to Provide a Refrigerator or Stove?

In California, habitability laws require rental units to have functional cooking facilities, which typically includes:

• A working stove or cooktop

• Safe gas or electrical connections

• Proper ventilation where required

While refrigerators are not explicitly required in all cases by state law, if a refrigerator is provided by the landlord, it must:

• Be safe

• Be in good working condition

• Meet basic health and safety standards

Many cities and counties now strongly encourage or effectively require refrigerators in long-term rentals, especially in multifamily housing.

What’s New With Stoves & Refrigerators?

Recent updates and enforcement focus on:

🔌 Electrical & Gas Safety

• Appliances must be properly connected

• No exposed wiring or unsafe gas lines

• Units must meet current electrical codes

🔥 Fire & Carbon Monoxide Safety

• Gas stoves must function correctly without leaks

• Carbon monoxide risks are taken seriously

• Faulty or outdated appliances may require replacement

⚡ Energy Efficiency Standards

• Older, inefficient refrigerators may no longer be acceptable

• Newer models reduce power usage and lower utility strain

• Helps tenants save on electricity over time

🏠 Habitability & Enforcement

• If an appliance is part of the unit, landlords must repair or replace it

• Long delays or unsafe conditions can be a habitability issue

• Tenants can request repairs without fear of retaliation

What Tenants Should Do If an Appliance Is Not Working

If your refrigerator or stove stops working or seems unsafe:

1. Submit a maintenance request in writing

2. Include clear details (no heat, gas smell, tripping breakers, etc.)

3. Allow reasonable time for inspection or repair

4. Avoid attempting DIY fixes that could be unsafe

Good property management companies document requests and prioritize appliance safety quickly.

How Responsible Property Owners Are Responding

Across California, many property owners are proactively:

• Upgrading to new, energy-efficient appliances

• Replacing outdated stoves before they become a hazard

• Investing millions into rehabilitating older properties

• Ensuring homes meet or exceed local and state standards

These efforts improve safety, comfort, and long-term housing stability for tenants.

Our Commitment to Tenants

We believe safe housing starts with the basics — working appliances, clean homes, and responsive management. As laws evolve, we stay ahead of requirements to ensure our communities remain safe, functional, and comfortable.

If you ever have concerns about your stove, refrigerator, or any appliance in your home, we encourage you to reach out. Your safety matters.