Claim an Exempt or Inapplicable Status

Richmond Rent Board Regulation 205 provides that Landlords and Tenants may request that an Administrative Decision be rendered regarding the applicability of the Rent Ordinance or a claimed exemption described in Section 11.100.030(d) of the Rent Ordinance. All requests for an Administrative Determination regarding applicability and/or exemption must be made on the appropriate Rent Program form below. Applicants must complete the application form and attach sufficient information and documents to substantiate their claim. The applicant has the burden of proof in demonstrating a claimed exemption or inapplicable status.

The table below identifies the forms that correspond to a variety of situations. For assistance in identifying the appropriate form for your situation, please contact the Rent Program at (510) 234-RENT [7368] or rent@ci.richmond.ca.us.

Name of FormTo Be Completed By:When to Use this Form:
Declaration of Owner Occupancy
English Form
Spanish Form (for reference only; the English form must be submitted)
Property OwnerComplete this form if you are claiming that a single family home or condominium has never been rented by the current property owner, who resides in the unit/property as their primary residence
Request for an Administrative Determination of Inapplicability due to Owner Occupancy
English Form
Spanish Form (for reference only; the English form must be submitted) 
Property OwnerComplete this form if you are claiming that a unit/property is no longer applicable to the Rent Ordinance because the unit/property is no longer rented and is instead occupied by the property owner as their primary residence
Request for an Administrative Determination of Inapplicability Because the Property is Not Offered for Rent or Offered "Rent-Free"
English Form
Spanish Form (for reference only; the English form must be submitted) 
Property OwnerComplete this form if you are claiming that a unit/property is not applicable to the Rent Ordinance because it is not offered for rent, or the occupant does not pay any rent or perform any services in lieu of rent
Request for an Administrative Determination of Exempt Status
English Form
Property OwnerComplete this form is you are claiming that a unit/property is fully or partially exempt from the Rent Ordinance as described in Section 11.100.030(d) of the Rent Ordinance
Petition to Determine Exempt Status
English Form
Property OwnerComplete this form if you wish to challenge the findings of the Administration Determination issued by the Rent Program