File A Petition

The Apartment Rent Ordinance(Chapter 17.23.010) provides that tenants who live in rent stabilized units may file petitions based on:

Invalid rent increases(17.23.310)
Health and safety concerns
Service reductions

To download a petition in English, Spanish, or Vietnamese, see the links below.

English - Tenant Petition
Spanish - Solicitud del Inquilino
Vietnamese - Đơn Khiếu Nại Dành Cho Người Thuê Nhà

Instructions Filling Out The Petition

Download the Petition Instructions to fill out the Tenant Petition.

Once a completed petition is filed with the Rent Stabilization Program, a mediation or hearing will be scheduled. The parties (landlords and tenants) will have a chance to meet and talk about issues raised in the petition with a Mediator or Hearing Officer.

The City of San José has changed how the Rent Stabilization Program (RSP) conducts business. The RSP is an essential service and petitions are still being accepted for rent stabilized units subject to the Apartment Rent Ordinance (ARO).(San Jose Municipal Code 17.23.010)

If you have any questions about whether your unit is rent stabilized or about the right to file a petition, please call 408-975-4480 or email RSP@sanjoseca.gov

Download this form with many questions and answers tenants and landlords may face throughout the process.

Tenant and Landlord Q&A

Notice of Representation/Proxy Forms

Notice of Representation/Proxy Form

A Landlord or tenant can submit a representation by a proxy. A proxy is someone that has the authority to represent you on your behalf and does not need to be an attorney. This form will be filed with the City’s Rent Stabilization Program.

Appeal Request or Breach of Voluntary Agreement Form

Appeal Request or Breach of Voluntary Agreement

This form allows parties to appeal an administrative decision or claim a breach of a voluntary agreement within a time limit. The Appeal Request must be submitted in writing on this form and returned to the Rent Stabilization Program.