Rent Control Violations
Rent control is a broad term for legislation that limits rental rates in a city or state. Rent control laws vary by municipality, but they generally put a limit on annual rent increases and protect tenants from eviction without cause.
HOW DOES RENT CONTROL OR RENT STABILIZATION WORK IN LA?
The city of Los Angeles has different rules regarding rent control than those imposed by the state, but they only apply to buildings with a certificate of occupancy from October 1978 or earlier. Apartments built from late 1978 to 2005 are subject to the statewide rent control laws. Other cities in and around Los Angeles County may have their own rent control laws.
DID RENT CONTROL CHANGE DURING THE PANDEMIC?
Assembly Bill 1482 (AB 1482), also known as the California Tenant Protection Act of 2019, was enacted on January 1, 2020, which established statewide rent control and eviction protections for rent-controlled tenants not covered by local ordinances. Under AB 1482, landlords are subject to rent increase caps, limiting annual rent hikes to no more than 5% + local CPI (Consumer Price Index), or 10%, whichever is lower. The act also imposed restrictions on evicting tenants after they have lived in a unit for at least 12 months.
WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT RENT CONTROL VIOLATIONS?
When it comes to navigating the complexities of rent control laws in Los Angeles, consulting with an attorney can be extremely beneficial. The intricacies of these regulations can be overwhelming, and a legal professional can provide valuable guidance to help tenants understand the laws. By seeking legal advice, renters can gain a comprehensive understanding of their rights and obligations, ensuring they make informed decisions in their rental operations.
