Rent Control Explained in the City of Los Angeles

Los Angeles rent control laws protect tenants from excessive rent increases and stabilize a competitive housing market. Officially known as the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), these regulations aim to balance the interests of tenants and landlords by promoting fair practices. Whether you’re a tenant seeking protection or a landlord managing rental properties, understanding the nuances of rent control is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Los Angeles rent control laws, covering eligible properties, rent increase limitations, and tenant protections.

What Is Rent Control in Los Angeles?

Rent control in Los Angeles, established under the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), limits how much landlords can increase rent and sets strict eviction rules. The program serves three primary purposes:

• Preventing excessive rent increases. Rent control ensures tenants can afford to stay in their homes despite fluctuating market conditions.
• Providing stability. The law reduces the likelihood of displacement by capping rent hikes, particularly for long-term renters.
• Regulating evictions. The RSO requires landlords to have specific, legally valid reasons—known as “just cause”—to evict tenants from covered properties.

The Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) administers the RSO, overseeing compliance and addressing disputes between landlords and tenants.

Which Properties Are Covered Under Rent Control?

Not all rental properties in Los Angeles fall under rent control. The RSO primarily applies to multi-family residential buildings constructed before October 1, 1978. Covered properties include some:

• Multi-family dwellings—apartments and other multi-unit buildings built before 1978; and
• Mobile homes—spaces in mobile home parks where tenants pay space rent.

Exempt properties can include:

• Single-family homes—these homes are generally exempt unless owned by corporations or real estate investment trusts (REITs);
• Newer buildings—properties constructed after October 1, 1978, are not subject to the RSO; and
• Owner-occupied units—duplexes where the owner resides in one of the units.

Landlords and tenants must verify whether the RSO covers a specific property. The LAHD provides tools, such as property look-up systems, to determine eligibility.

How Are Rent Increases Regulated?

One of the key features of the RSO is its strict limitations on rent increases for covered properties. Here’s what landlords and tenants need to know about annual increase caps:

• The RSO limits annual rent increases to a percentage determined by the LAHD; and
• This percentage is typically tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and varies yearly.

For example, rent increases were frozen for most RSO properties during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the law’s flexibility during emergencies.

Landlords who choose not to raise rent in a given year may “bank” that increase and apply it later, within certain limits. That allows some flexibility while still adhering to rent control rules.

Additional Increases

In certain circumstances, landlords can request additional rent increases beyond the standard cap, such as:

• Capital improvement pass-throughs for costs related to major property improvements; and
• Utility cost increases if utilities are included in rent, and costs have risen significantly.

These additional increases require approval from the LAHD, and tenants have the right to contest them.

What Tenant Protections Are in Place in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles rent control laws provide robust protections for tenants, ensuring fair treatment and safeguarding against wrongful eviction.

Eviction Protections

Under the RSO, landlords must have “just cause” to evict tenants from covered properties. Examples of valid reasons include:

• Nonpayment of rent,
• Violations of the lease agreement,
• Owner or family move-in (with proper notice), or
• Substantial renovations requiring vacancy.

Evictions for reasons not covered by the RSO are illegal and can result in landlord penalties.

Relocation Assistance

Landlords must provide relocation assistance if a tenant is evicted through no fault of their own, such as for owner move-in or property renovations. The amount varies based on factors like the tenant’s income, age, or disability status.

Rent Freeze Protections

During emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, rent freezes may be enacted to protect tenants from financial instability. These freezes temporarily suspend allowable rent increases under the RSO.

How to File a Rent Control Complaint in Los Angeles

If tenants believe their landlord has violated rent control regulations, they can file a complaint with the LAHD. Here’s how the process works:

• Gather evidence. Collect documentation such as lease agreements, rent increase notices, or proof of unlawful eviction attempts.
• Submit the complaint. File the complaint online or in person at the LAHD office.
• Attend mediation or hearings. The LAHD may schedule a hearing to resolve disputes or issue fines against noncompliant landlords.

Tenants have the right to legal representation during this process and are encouraged to seek advice if necessary.

How Does Rent Control Affect Landlords?

While rent control provides significant tenant protections, landlords also face unique challenges and responsibilities. Here are a couple of ways rent control affects the landlord:

• Compliance with regulations. Landlords must follow RSO guidelines for rent increases, eviction processes, and relocation assistance.
• Potential financial impact. Rent control limits profitability, especially during periods of rising property expenses.
• Legal risks. Noncompliance with RSO regulations can result in fines, penalties, or lawsuits.

Many landlords work with legal professionals to navigate these complexities and ensure compliance.

Why Is Rent Control Important?

Rent control in Los Angeles helps address the city’s affordable housing crisis by limiting rent increases and protecting tenants from displacement. Key benefits include:

• Tenant stability—families can remain in their homes without fear of sudden rent spikes;
• Fair housing practices—rent control reduces the likelihood of discriminatory evictions or pricing; and
• Balanced market—by regulating rent increases, the city fosters a more equitable housing environment for tenants and landlords.

Whether you’re a tenant seeking stability or a landlord managing properties, staying informed about rent control laws is critical. Understanding the RSO’s rules helps protect your rights and ensures compliance with local regulations.

Protect Your Housing Rights with Bartley Babcock

Navigating the complexities of rent control in Los Angeles can be overwhelming, whether you’re a tenant facing challenges with your landlord or a property owner trying to stay compliant. At the Law Office of Bartley Babcock, we understand the stakes in housing disputes. We provide tenants and landlords with the clarity and legal support they need to move forward confidently.

With over a decade of trial experience and a proven track record in tenant advocacy, Bartley Babcock has helped countless Californians understand their rights, fight unfair practices, and achieve favorable outcomes. Whether you’re dealing with an illegal rent increase, wrongful eviction, or other housing-related issues, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.