What You Need to Know About LA’s Renter Protections

The City of Los Angeles is committed to protecting renters, especially during challenging times. In response to the January 2025 wildfires, the city introduced updated renter protections designed to help residents stay housed and recover with the support they need. These local laws focus on stability, fairness, and compassion, offering renters practical tools to manage financial or housing disruptions confidently.  

If you are a renter affected by recent wildfires, took in displaced individuals or pets, or simply want to understand your rights better, this guide will help you with the most important protections currently in effect. 

Eviction Protection for Renters Affected by the January 2025 Wildfires 

If you have been financially affected by the January 2025 wildfires, the City of Los Angeles has put eviction protections in place to help you stay home. Effective from February 1, 2025 through July 31, 2025, you cannot be evicted for non-payment of rent if your income was affected due to the fires, your workplace or business was damaged, your hours were cut, you were laid off, or you lost clients based in impacted areas. 

To access this protection, follow these steps: 

• You need to notify your property owner with a self-certification form within seven days of the rent due date for each month you cannot pay. For February rent, that means giving notice by March 4, 2025. 
• You must have lived in your current unit before January 7, 2025. 
• Your household income must have dropped by at least 10% compared to what you earned before the wildfires. 
• You should be enrolled in or have applied for a wildfire relief program, unemployment benefits, or another qualifying income assistance program. 
• Your 2024 household income must be at or below 150% of the Area Median Income. 

This temporary protection gives renters time to recover financially while keeping their housing stable. Rent that goes unpaid during this protected period must be paid by July 31, 2026, but the city encourages renters and property owners to work together on payment plans or partial payments when possible. 

Just Cause Eviction Protections in LA 

Starting January 27, 2023, Los Angeles implemented eviction protections for renters, extending these safeguards to almost all rental properties, including single-family homes and condominiums. This is a significant step forward for renters, particularly those in units built after October 1, 1978, that were not previously covered by the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO). These units are now included in the City’s Just Cause Eviction Protections Ordinance. 

Renters are protected from eviction at the end of their first lease or after six months of a new lease agreement, whichever comes first. Property owners can no longer evict renters without a valid legal reason. If a property owner does try to evict a renter without fault, they must pay relocation assistance. Whether facing changes or wanting to know more about your rights, this law helps make Los Angeles a more renter-friendly city. 

Eviction Filing and Notice to Terminate Tenancy 

Effective from January 27, 2023, property owners must file a notice to terminate the tenancy with the Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) within three business days after serving the renter if the eviction is due to an at-fault reason. This requirement is part of the Los Angeles Municipal Code (151.09.C.9 & 165.05.B.5). 

If you are a property owner, you can easily upload your at-fault eviction notice directly to the LAHD system. For no-fault evictions, property owners must submit the appropriate forms to LAHD, pay the necessary fees, and ensure the renter receives relocation assistance. Be sure to file the required “Declaration of Intent to Evict” forms for any no-fault evictions and follow the instructions to complete the submission. This helps make the eviction process smoother for everyone. 

Just Cause Ordinance Registration for Property Owners 

The Just Cause Ordinance (JCO), approved by the City Council, ensures eviction protections for renters living in rental units that are not covered by the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO). 

The property owners receive an annual registration bill for all rental units. If your property is not being rented out, you would not need to pay this fee. Instead, you will need to complete and submit the exemption form included with your bill. This form lets the city know that your property is owner-occupied or that no rent is being collected.  

We encourage property owners to monitor these updates to ensure compliance and avoid potential issues. Your proactive involvement helps contribute to a stable rental market for all. 

Notice of Renters’ Protections 

Starting January 27, 2023, all property owners must provide a Notice of Renters’ Protections to renters who begin or renew their lease. This notice ensures renters are fully informed about their rights and protection. Property owners are also required to display the notice in a common area where renters can easily access it. Doing so aims to promote awareness and ensure renters have the information they need for a smooth and secure living experience. 

Protecting Renters from Harassment in Los Angeles 

Los Angeles stands up for renters’ rights with the Tenant Anti-Harassment Ordinance (TAHO), adopted on June 23, 2021. This law ensures property owners treat renters fairly by banning actions like cutting off essential services, delaying repairs, or rejecting rent payments. It applies to all residential units across the city, giving every renter the right to feel secure and respected in their home.  

BFPM’s Approach to Renter Protections 

At BFPM Inc., we are committed to upholding the standards set by ordinances like TAHO and ensuring every renter feels valued, respected, and secure. Our team stays informed and proactive regarding compliance, renter rights, and property care because we believe great property management starts with trust and transparency. Whether you’re a renter or a property owner, you can count on us to foster respectful relationships and maintain housing environments.