California's proposed SB 436 sounds simple enough: give tenants more time to respond to eviction notices. But when you run property at scale, and with intention, you start to see how well-meaning laws can have unintended consequences.
At Coastline Equity, we're committed to ethical, high-quality housing management. But we’re also honest about the operational realities that legislation like SB 436 can create.
Extending the notice period for nonpayment of rent from 3 days to 14.
Requiring landlords to accept third-party rent payments.
Giving tenants the right to pay in full or show rental assistance proof up until lockout.
Limiting that right to once per year.
Evictions in California already take 6–9 months. We recently managed one in Long Beach that resulted in more than $55,000 in lost rent, damage, legal fees, and turnover costs — on a single unit.
These costs can’t just be absorbed. They get passed into higher rents, tighter margins, or in many cases, a decision by mom-and-pop landlords to sell.
Large hedge funds and institutional buyers step in. Local housing loses its personal touch. Service declines. Rent accelerates.
This is how well-intentioned policy fuels corporate consolidation of neighborhoods.
We believe in:
Maintaining balance between tenant rights and housing provider sustainability.
Operating with integrity and care — even when it’s hard.
Advocating for policy that works in the real world, not just on paper.
As we outline in Property Management Excellence:
"Our role isn’t just managing properties. It’s managing legacies."
Review your eviction process for compliance and risk.
Budget for longer delays if SB 436 passes.
Get involved with advocacy groups fighting for fair and functional housing legislation.
SB 436 may pass, or it may evolve. Either way, Coastline Equity is preparing now — so our clients, tenants, and communities are protected no matter what comes next.
Want to talk with our team about how to prepare your portfolio? Contact us or explore our full suite of management solutions.