Rent Increases and Evictions During a State of Emergency in Los Angeles County: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
In response to the recent wildfires and the declared state of emergency in Los Angeles County, state and local regulations have implemented rent and eviction protections to ensure housing stability. Whether you're a landlord bringing a unit to market or a tenant navigating a lease during this period, it’s essential to understand your rights and responsibilities.
Rent Increase Limitations
Anti-Price Gouging Law – California Penal Code Section 396
During a declared emergency, landlords cannot increase rent by more than 10% above the pre-emergency rate.
This 10% cap applies to existing tenants, new leases, and previously rented units that were vacant at the time of the emergency.
New or Never-Rented Units
If you're listing a unit that has never been rented before, special pricing rules apply:
The rental price cannot exceed 160% of the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area.
This rule ensures that landlords do not take advantage of the housing crisis by setting exorbitant rates on new listings.
2025 HUD Fair Market Rent Limits for Los Angeles County
| Unit Size | HUD FMR | 160% Cap (Max Allowed Rent) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,856 | $2,970 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,081 | $3,330 |
| 2 Bedroom | $2,625 | $4,200 |
| 3 Bedroom | $3,335 | $5,336 |
| 4 Bedroom | $3,698 | $5,917 |
Example: A newly constructed 2-bedroom unit in Manhattan Beach that has never been rented before can be listed for no more than $4,200/month during the emergency period.
Eviction Protections for Tenants
Los Angeles County Resolution
Landlords may not evict tenants for housing displaced individuals or their pets.
In unincorporated areas, tenants who are sheltering those affected by the fires are protected from eviction based on lease technicalities.
Fire Survivor Protections
Evictions for non-payment of rent require at least 60 days' notice.
Landlords may be required to provide tenant relocation assistance under the County’s Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protections Ordinance.
Exceptions
Certain protections may not apply to high-income renters.
Landlords may proceed with eviction if they have a good faith intent to occupy the unit themselves.
Additional Resources
Los Angeles County – Rent relief programs and emergency housing resources
LA Housing Department (LAHD) – Rent control and housing rights information
California Apartment Association (CAA) – Support and legal guidance for landlords
LAist – Tenant-focused emergency protection guides
HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) - United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Fair Market Rent by zip codes in Los Angeles County.
If you’re navigating the rental market as a landlord or tenant during this emergency period and have questions about pricing, eviction rights, or local requirements, contact me HERE or give me a call at (424)212-3859.
Best regards,
Lindsay Woolf | CA DRE #02236711
DOMO Real Estate | CA DRE #01290500
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Real estate transactions can be complex and subject to local regulations.
