How Does Rent Control Work for Tenants in Los Angeles?

By Paul M. Collins, Esq.

Navigating the housing landscape in Los Angeles as a tenant can feel overwhelming, especially with rising rents across the city. Rent control measures, such as the Los Angeles Municipal Code Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), aim to address these challenges by regulating rent increases and providing additional legal protections for renters. Here’s everything you need to know about how rent control works for tenants in Los Angeles. 

What Is Rent Control? 

Rent control refers to local or state-implemented regulations that limit how much and how often a landlord can increase rent. The goal is to prevent excessive rent hikes that make housing unaffordable and protect tenants from sudden evictions for unjust reasons. This is especially relevant in Los Angeles, where rent costs are among the highest in the nation. 

Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) in Los Angeles 

The RSO applies to rental properties in Los Angeles built on or before October 1, 1978, as well as certain replacement units. If your rental falls under the RSO, you are entitled to key protections, including: 

  • Caps on Rent Increases: Landlords can only raise rent by the allowable RSO percentage annually, typically tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Learn about the most up-to-date allowable rent hikes on the Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) website.  
  • Tenant Petition Process: A rent-controlled tenant can file a Complaint with the Los Angeles Housing Department based on a landlord’s violation of their rights, including:  
  1. Illegal rent increases; 
  2. Unregistered unit status (landlords are required to register units subject to the RSO);  
  3. A reduction in housing services (such as removal of parking rights or storage access); and 
  4. Illegal attempts by the landlord/property management to engage in buyout negotiations. 
  • Tenant Rights Resources: The Los Angeles Housing Department offers free resources to inform tenants about their rights and how to resolve disputes with landlords. 

Are There Exemptions? 

Many properties are exempt from the rent control provisions of the RSO. These include, but are not limited to, the following: 

  • Single-family homes, condos, and townhomes (with limited exception).  
  • Units located in a structure for which the first Certificate of Occupancy was issued after October 1, 1978. 
  • Government-owned low-income housing.  

Additional Rights for Tenants 

Beyond rent caps, the Los Angeles Municipal Code provides many other tenant rights, including: 

  • No Discrimination: Landlords must treat all tenants equally regardless of race, gender, familial status, or disability.  
  • Repairs and Habitability: You have the right to a safe, livable home. Major issues such as mold, broken plumbing, or a lack of heat must be addressed promptly.  

If you’re experiencing these problems, you don’t have to handle them alone. The Rent Stabilization Ordinance Overview provides further guidance on how to report violations. 

Take Action to Protect Your Rights 

Understanding rent control and tenant protections can help you advocate for yourself and ensure you’re treated fairly. If you need help navigating tenant protections or resolving a dispute with your landlord, we’re here to support you. 

Get in touch with us by calling (415) 801-8878 or clicking Get Started to fill out our intake form.