As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Action" means any recoupment, counterclaim, setoff, or other civil action and any other proceeding in which rights are determined, including actions for possession, rent, unlawful detainer, unlawful entry, and distress for rent.
"Application deposit" means any refundable deposit of money, however denominated, including all money intended to be used as a security deposit under a rental agreement, or property that is paid by a tenant to a landlord for the purpose of being considered as a tenant for a dwelling unit.
"Application fee" means any nonrefundable fee that is paid by a tenant to a landlord or managing agent for the purpose of being considered as a tenant for a dwelling unit.
"Assignment" means the transfer by any tenant of all interests created by a rental agreement.
"Authorized occupant" means a person entitled to occupy a dwelling unit with the consent of the landlord, but who has not signed the rental agreement and therefore does not have the financial obligations as a tenant under the rental agreement.
"Building or housing code" means any law, ordinance, or governmental regulation concerning fitness for habitation or the construction, maintenance, operation, occupancy, use, or appearance of any structure or that part of a structure that is used as a home, residence, or sleeping place by one person who maintains a household or by two or more persons who maintain a common household.
"Commencement date of rental agreement" means the date upon which the tenant is entitled to occupy the dwelling unit as a tenant.
"Community land trust" means a community housing development organization whose board of directors is composed of tenants, corporate members who are not tenants, and any other