Los Angeles Rent Stabilization and Control Lawyer

California’s Tenant Protection Act provides a number of crucial protections for tenants, including limits on how much landlords can increase rent. Despite these protections, some landlords may ignore the law and attempt to impose higher rent increases than allowed. Additionally, if applicable, a tenant may be protected under the Los Angeles Rent Stabilization Ordinance (LARSO).

If you find yourself facing an unjustifiable rent hike, a Los Angeles rent stabilization and control lawyer familiar with LARSO and California’s Tenant Protection ACT can offer the support you need to challenge it effectively. Reach out to CD Law today to begin working with an experienced tenants’ rights attorney.

California Limits on Rent Increases

Under the California Tenant Protection Act, most residents in California have protection against substantial rent increases.  In any twelve-month period, a landlord may not increase a qualifying tenant’s rent by more than 5% plus the increase in the published Consumer Price Index for the tenant’s geographic region, or 10%, whichever is less. These restrictions apply only to tenants who remain in the same rental unit from one year to the next. If a tenant chooses to move out of the property, the landlord can choose to set the rent wherever they like before bringing in a new tenant, although some rent caps may still apply depending on the local regulations.

The Los Angeles Rent Stabilization Ordinance (LARSO)

LARSO introduced additional protections for renters. This program mandates that rental units covered under its provisions cannot see rent increases exceeding 4% annually until December 31 of the same year (allowable rent increase percentage varies each year).

This ordinance covers various properties, including those built before October 1978, any replacement units, and mobile homes or RVs in mobile home parks. If you have questions about whether your rent increase violates Los Angeles rent stabilization and rent control laws, reach out to our attorneys for guidance.

When to Seek Assistance With Rent Increases

Disputes over rent increases can escalate quickly. If your landlord raises the rent beyond the limits set by either LARSO or the California Tenant Protection Act, it is crucial to act promptly. Reach out for legal assistance as soon as you receive a notice of the increase.

Some landlords may attempt to bypass rent stabilization laws by raising the rent multiple times over the course of the year. Keep detailed records of any rent increases to ensure they comply with California law. A rent stabilization and control lawyer in Los Angeles can offer guidance on your options and help you take steps to address the issue, including negotiating a lower rent or challenging the increase legally.

Addressing Retaliation

If you contest an illegal rent increase, some landlords may retaliate against you. This retaliation can take several forms, including:

• Attempting to evict you
• Illegally entering the property
• Failing to take care of needed repairs on the property
• Making the property uncomfortable for you in some way
• Trying to force you out illegally, including having utilities turned off, changing the locks, or issuing threats

If you experience retaliation from your landlord, it is essential to seek legal assistance immediately. A Los Angeles lawyer can inform you about how to protect your rights and ensure you are not unfairly targeted for exercising your legal protections after an unfair rent increase.

Contact an Attorney Familiar With LARSO and the California Tenant Protection Act

Dealing with unfair rent increases can be challenging, and navigating the legal aspects on your own may be overwhelming. Reach out to a Los Angeles rent stabilization and control lawyer familiar with LARSO and the California Tenant Protection Act to understand your options for challenging unlawful rent increases and ensuring fair treatment.

At CD Law, we are dedicated to helping tenants confront unfair practices by landlords, including illegal rent increases. Our team has extensive experience in tenant rights and can guide you through the process of protecting your rights. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.