The “fridge-less” apartment—a frustrating and unique staple of the California rental market for decades—is officially becoming a thing of the past. As of January 1, 2026, California has implemented Assembly Bill 628 (AB 628), a landmark law that fundamentally changes the definition of a “habitable” home.

For the first time in state history, a working refrigerator is no longer just an “amenity”—it is a legal requirement for most residential tenancies. Here is the breakdown of how this new law impacts you and what you can do if your landlord isn’t in compliance.

The “Big Two” Appliances

Under AB 628 (codified in Civil Code § 1941.1), most landlords are now required to provide and maintain two essential kitchen appliances in good working order:

  • A Working Stove: Must be capable of safely generating heat for cooking.

  • A Working Refrigerator: Must be capable of safely storing food at proper temperatures.

The “Maintenance” Rule: Providing the appliance is only half the battle. If a landlord-provided stove or fridge breaks due to normal wear and tear, the landlord is legally responsible for the repair or replacement. Furthermore, if an appliance is subject to a manufacturer recall, the landlord must repair or replace it within 30 days of receiving notice.

When Does the Law Kick In for You?

The mandate applies to any residential lease that is entered into, renewed, or amended on or after January 1, 2026.

  • New Tenants: If you signed a lease this year, your unit must have these appliances.

  • Existing Tenants: If you are on a fixed-term lease that hasn’t expired yet, the law will apply once your lease renews or is extended.

  • Month-to-Month Tenants: Since these tenancies essentially “renew” every month, most month-to-month renters are already covered by this mandate.

Can You Still Bring Your Own Fridge?

Yes, but the law has strict protections to ensure landlords don’t force you into it.

  • The “Voluntary” Rule: You can agree to provide your own refrigerator, but it must be a voluntary choice. A landlord cannot make “providing your own fridge” a condition of your tenancy.

  • The Disclosure: If you choose to bring your own, the lease must contain a specific statement acknowledging that you know the landlord is legally required to provide one, but you have asked to bring your own.

  • The 30-Day Revocation: Even if you agree to bring your own fridge today, the law gives you the right to change your mind. You can provide your landlord with 30 days’ written notice stating you no longer wish to use your own appliance, at which point the landlord must install a working refrigerator at their own expense.

Exemptions to the Rule

Not every rental is covered. The mandate does not apply to:

  • Permanent supportive housing.

  • Single-room occupancy (SRO) units with shared kitchens.

  • Residential hotels.

  • Housing facilities with communal or shared kitchen spaces (like some assisted living facilities).

Your Legal Remedies for Non-Compliance

Because a working fridge is now a “habitability” requirement, a lack of one is treated with the same legal weight as a lack of running water or heat. If your landlord refuses to provide or fix a refrigerator:

  1. Repair and Deduct: You may have the right to pay for the repair yourself and deduct the cost from your rent (following strict legal procedures).

  2. Rent Withholding: You may be able to withhold rent until the unit is made habitable.

  3. Eviction Defense: If you are facing eviction for non-payment, the lack of a mandatory appliance can be used as a powerful defense in court.

Conclusion

The passage of AB 628 marks the end of an era where California renters had to lug heavy appliances from one apartment to the next. In 2026, a “habitable” home means a home where you can safely store and cook your food.

Is your landlord refusing to provide a refrigerator or ignoring a repair request for your stove? Don’t settle for a cooler or a hot plate. Contact Lforlaw today to speak with a US tenant rights attorney who can help you enforce your rights and ensure your home meets the 2026 standards of habitability.

Sources

  • California Legislative Information: Assembly Bill 628 (Chaptered 2025-2026).

  • California Civil Code: Section 1941.1 (Characteristics of a Tenantable Dwelling).

  • CalMatters: New California Law Requires Fridge and Stove for All Apartments (December 2025).

  • California Apartment Association (CAA): Compliance Guide for AB 628.

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