House hunting
A $900 room on Southside? Check it first.
Scammers love tight markets. Watch for pay-before-you-tour, or “let's move to text and Zelle.”
Paste the listing or message and we point out the scam warning signs.
🐻 UC Berkeley
Renting in Berkeley? Don't pay more than you should.
Free tools for Cal students to avoid scams, see the real rent, check your lease and get your deposit back
What you can do here
Free, private, no sign-up
21days to get your deposit back
1 momax deposit for most rentals
10%max yearly increase under the state cap
Comparing places
The ad says $1,800. What will you really pay?
Utilities, internet, trash and amenity fees can push it past $2,100.
Enter the rent and every fee to see your true monthly total, then split it fairly by room size.
Before signing
Anything unfair hiding in your lease?
Like making you pay for every repair, or a flat cleaning fee no matter how clean you leave it.
Add your lease and we highlight clauses worth questioning, in plain English.
Move-out
Make sure your deposit comes back
California landlords have 21 days, and now need photos to justify deductions.
Build your own dated photo record, then create a demand letter that cites California law if the money doesn't come.
🙋 Real humans
Need someone in your corner?
Tools get you organized. These folks can advise you
Quick answers
How big can my deposit be?
For most California rentals since July 2024, one month's rent. Some small landlords can charge two.
How fast do I get it back?
21 days after move-out, with an itemized list and photos for any deductions.
Is my place rent-controlled?
Maybe. Many Berkeley units are under local rent control, others under the state cap. The Rent Board can check yours.
Independent and free. Not affiliated with UC Berkeley or the City of Berkeley. We don't vet landlords. Last reviewed September 2026. Run a group for these renters and want something changed? Tell us
Educational information, not legal advice - figures are general and laws change. How we keep this accurate & where to verify → · Spot an error? Tell us →