November 2025 Blog
🏡 November Newsletter – Preparing for the Cooler Months on the Peninsula
Dear Homeowners,
As we move into the cooler, damp months along the Monterey Peninsula, our focus shifts toward keeping homes comfortable, efficient, and compliant with California’s ever-evolving housing laws. Below are key updates and seasonal reminders to help you protect your investment and stay ahead of maintenance and legal changes.
⚖️ Legislative Update: AB 628 – Required Refrigerators and Stoves in Rental Units
Beginning January 1, 2026, California Assembly Bill 628 will require that all residential rental units include a functioning stove and refrigerator capable of safely storing and preparing food.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Applies to new, renewed, or extended leases on or after January 1, 2026.
- The law amends Civil Code §1941.1 to redefine a “tenantable dwelling” to include a working stove and refrigerator.
- Repair or replacement of these appliances is required within 30 days if they are recalled or no longer function safely.
- Exemptions include units in facilities with communal kitchens (such as SROs or certain supportive housing).
For our managed properties, this will simply formalize what most owners already provide. Between now and 2026, we’ll review all units to ensure appliances meet these standards and plan ahead for any needed upgrades or replacements.
🌧️ Seasonal Reminder: Managing Moisture and Mildew on the Coast
Our coastal climate brings high humidity, fog, and limited direct sunlight—ideal conditions for surface mildew and condensation to develop. These are not signs of structural failure, but rather normal effects of our marine environment. Here’s how we proactively manage them:
- Ventilation: We remind tenants to use bathroom fans, open windows periodically, and avoid blocking airflow around exterior walls.
- Routine Inspections: During property visits, our team checks for signs of moisture buildup or musty odors.
- Responsive Action: If mildew appears, we address it quickly—often with cleaning, improved ventilation, or professional remediation when warranted.
Prevention and education are key to keeping interiors fresh and healthy.
🧰 Winter Property Tips for the Monterey Peninsula
While our winters are mild compared to inland California, the combination of rain, salt air, and cooler temperatures means this is the time to give your property a little extra care:
- Gutters & Downspouts: Clear out debris to prevent roof and fascia damage.
- Roof Inspections: Check for moss growth or lifting shingles before the rainy season peaks.
- Exterior Sealing: Touch up caulking around windows, vents, and trim to prevent moisture intrusion.
- Weatherstripping: Replace worn seals on doors and windows to reduce drafts.
- Heater Filters: Remind tenants (or service through vendors) to replace filters before heavy winter use.
Unlike colder inland areas, our local climate doesn’t require pipe insulation or “winterizing” water lines—but staying ahead on drainage, airflow, and roof maintenance goes a long way toward preventing costly issues.
đź’ˇ Final Thoughts
We appreciate your continued partnership with Pacific Grove Property Management as we close out the year. Our team remains focused on maintaining your properties with professionalism, care, and compliance—keeping pace with both the weather and the evolving California housing landscape.
If you’d like a review of your property’s appliance inventory or a pre-rainy-season inspection, please reach out and we’ll schedule a visit.