California Tenants May Choose Internet in 2026

Effective January 1, 2026, California Civil Code section 1942.8 prohibits landlords from requiring California tenants to use a particular internet service provider, typically imposed on California tenants through bulk billing schemes applied uniformly to every unit at an apartment complex.  California Civil Code § 1942.8(a).  This means California tenants may contract with their preferred ISP, and not a ISP selected by their landlord. Where the landlord violates this law, the California tenant may subtract the cost of the forced internet subscription from their rent.  California Civil Code § 1942.8(b).  The law applies to tenancies commenced, renewed, or continuing on a month-to-month basis on or after January 1, 2026.  This law defines, “internet service provider,” as, “ a business that provides broadband Internet access service to an individual, corporation, government, or other customer in California.”  California Civil Code § 3100.  Finally, the law prohibits landlord retaliation against any California tenant that exercises their rights under this law.