Rent Control Explained in the City of West Hollywood

Navigating the rental market in West Hollywood can feel overwhelming, especially with rising costs and complex regulations. Rent control protects tenants against skyrocketing rents and unjust evictions. For landlords, understanding these rules ensures compliance and fosters positive relationships with tenants. Governed by the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), West Hollywood’s rent control laws aim to create stability and fairness in housing.

Whether you’re a tenant trying to stay in your home or a landlord managing your property, this blog post breaks down everything you need to know about rent control laws in West Hollywood—including property eligibility, rent increase limits, and tenant protections.

Which Properties Are Covered Under Rent Stabilization in West Hollywood?

West Hollywood’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) applies to many rental properties but includes key distinctions based on property type, construction date, and tenant history. Understanding whether a property is wholly or partially covered—or exempt entirely—is crucial for tenants and landlords.

Properties Covered by the Full Ordinance

These properties are subject to all sections of the Rent Stabilization Ordinance, including rent control, eviction, and harassment protections:

• Multi-dwelling units built before July 1, 1979. Buildings with more than one rental unit that received a Certificate of Occupancy before this date fall under RSO guidelines.
• Single-dwelling units occupied before January 1, 1996. Properties with only one rental unit whose Certificate of Occupancy was issued before July 1, 1979, and whose current tenants moved in before January 1, 1996, also fall under the RSO.

Many properties in West Hollywood fall into these categories, meaning they are entirely governed by the RSO’s rent stabilization, eviction, and harassment sections.

Properties Covered Only by Eviction and Harassment Protections

Certain properties are exempt from the rent stabilization sections but are still covered by the Ordinance’s eviction and harassment protections. These include:

• Newer construction. Units with a Certificate of Occupancy issued on or after July 1, 1979, are exempt from the rent stabilization.
• Single-dwelling units with tenancies starting after January 1, 1996. This rent stabilization exclusion includes properties with only one rental unit currently occupied by tenants who moved in on or after January 1, 1996.
• Government-owned or subsidized properties. Public housing and certain subsidized units fall under specific protections, but the RSO does not cap rents.

These units are not subject to Maximum Allowable Rent (MAR) limits or registration fees for annual adjustments, but landlords must still comply with strict eviction and tenant harassment laws.

Properties Completely Exempt from the RSO

Some properties are entirely exempt from the Rent Stabilization Ordinance, including:

• Institutional facilities, such as nursing homes or dormitories;
• Non-profit housing developments; and
• Certain hotel or motel accommodations.

If you are uncertain whether the RSO wholly or partially covers a property, the City of West Hollywood provides tools and resources to check eligibility.

Temporary Exemptions for Individual Units

Certain units within otherwise covered properties may qualify for temporary exemptions under specific conditions, such as:

• Owner-occupancy—units occupied by the property owner or their close relatives; and
• Non-rental uses—units converted for non-residential purposes, such as laundry rooms or community spaces.

These exemptions are temporary and require annual renewal by the landlord. Units lose their exemption status if returned to the rental market or if applications are not renewed.

How Are Rent Increases Regulated?

Rent control laws in West Hollywood limit landlords’ ability to increase rent for covered properties. The city establishes an annual allowable rent increase percentage, which cannot exceed the Annual General Allowance (AGA). Increases are typically capped at a small percentage to balance tenant affordability with landlord costs. During emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, rent freezes may be implemented to protect tenants.

Landlords who choose not to increase rent in a given year may bank that increase and apply it in the future within specific limits.

In some cases, landlords may request additional rent increases, such as:

• Pass-throughs for capital improvements. Major renovations or upgrades that benefit tenants may justify a temporary rent increase.
• Utility cost adjustments. If landlords pay for utilities and costs have risen significantly, they may seek approval for a rent adjustment.

These increases require approval from the city and often involve a tenant notification and dispute process.

What Tenant Protections Are in Place in West Hollywood?

West Hollywood’s rent control laws provide tenants with robust protections to ensure fair treatment and housing stability. Under the RSO, landlords must have “just cause” to evict tenants. Valid reasons include:

• Nonpayment of rent,
• Breach of the lease agreement,
• Substantial property renovations requiring the unit to be vacant, or
• Owner or family move-in (with proper notice).

Retaliatory evictions or those based on discrimination are strictly prohibited.

How to File a Rent Control Complaint in West Hollywood

Tenants who believe their landlord has violated rent control regulations can file a complaint with the city’s Rent Stabilization and Housing Division. Here’s how:

• Document the issue. Gather evidence such as lease agreements, rent increase notices, and any communication with your landlord.
• Submit the complaint. File your complaint online or in person with the Rent Stabilization and Housing Division.
• Attend hearings or mediation. The city may schedule a hearing or mediation session to resolve the dispute.

Tenants can seek legal representation during this process to strengthen their case and protect their rights.

Protect Your Rights with the Law Office of Bartley Babcock

Understanding and navigating rent control laws in West Hollywood can be challenging for tenants and landlords. Whether you’re facing an unlawful rent increase or potential eviction or need clarification on your rights, the Law Office of Bartley Babcock is here to help.

With over a decade of experience in tenants’ rights advocacy and a proven record of success, Bartley Babcock is committed to providing clear, compassionate, and effective legal support. From filing complaints to defending against harassment or illegal evictions, our firm ensures that your rights are protected every step of the way.

Don’t let confusion or fear prevent you from taking action. Contact the Law Office of Bartley Babcock today for a consultation, and let us guide you through the complexities of West Hollywood’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance with confidence and peace of mind.