California AB 628: New Appliance Requirements for Landlords (Effective Jan 1, 2026)

New 2026 California Law: Landlords Must Provide Working Stoves and Refrigerators and what Housing Providers Need to Know

Beginning January 1, 2026, California landlords will be required to provide and maintain a working stove and refrigerator in most rental units when a lease is signed, renewed, or amended on or after that date.

Who It Applies To

• Applies to most residential rental properties in California.
• Includes apartments, single-family rentals, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
• Applies to new, renewed, or modified leases after Jan 1, 2026.

Who Is Exempt

• Residential hotels
• Single-room occupancy (SRO) units with shared kitchens (a person renting a room)
• Permanent supportive housing
• Other housing where tenants have access to a shared or communal kitchen

Requirements
• Landlords must provide:

o A working stove capable of safely cooking food.
o A working refrigerator capable of safely storing food.
• Both appliances must be safe, functional, and free from recalls.
• Landlords are responsible for repairs and maintenance of the provided appliances.
• Tenants may opt (in writing) to bring and maintain their own refrigerator instead.

California’s new appliance law marks another step toward ensuring safe, livable rental housing across the state. Beginning in 2026, most landlords will be required to supply and maintain both a working stove and refrigerator — an update that underscores the growing emphasis on habitability and tenant health. Housing providers should review their lease agreements, inspect existing appliances, and plan for repairs or replacements well before the effective date to stay compliant and avoid costly violations. AACSC will continue to keep members informed as the implementation timeline approaches.