As the first month of 2025 comes to a close, the wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles have left more than scorched earth—they’ve ignited a storm of housing challenges for renters already stretched thin. This week, we’re breaking down the latest news, what it means for renters like you, and how to protect your rights amidst the chaos.

Los Angeles renters have long been among the most cost-burdened in the country, with over 57% of renting households spending more than 30% of their income on housing, wildfires have made things worse. The destruction of homes and displacement of families has tightened the housing market even further, potentially driving up rents and creating more competition for already-scarce affordable options .

The highlighted ongoing issues with housing stability, including illegal rent hikes and disputes over what landlords can charge during emergencies. Here’s what’s happening and what you can do about it.

In the wake of the fires, Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a strong reminder: price gouging, including rental bidding wars and unjustified rent hikes, is illegal under California’s price gouging statute during a declared state of emergency .

If you’re experiencing increases, know that landlords cannot legally raise rents beyond the legal caps (usually no more than 10%, depending on local laws) during this time. If you suspect illegal price increases, you can report it to the California Department of Justice or contact local tenant advocacy groups like the LA Tenants Union.

Some landlords have reportedly raised rents by up to 100% following the wildfires, sparking accusations of exploitation . While state and local laws are in limit increases, enforcement can be uneven, leaving renters vulnerable.

If you’re facing an unfair rent hike or eviction notice, here’s what you can do:

In the wake of the devastating wildfires impacting Southern California, FEMA is stepping up to support renters and homeowners who find themselves displaced or struggling to maintain stable housing. If you or someone you know has been affected, FEMA’s Rental Assistance program might provide the relief you need.

FEMA Rental Assistance offers financial aid to those forced to leave their homes due to disasters like the recent wildfires. The program can help cover the cost of temporary housing, allowing families to regain stability while they navigate repairs or find new, permanent housing.

For many renters, finding temporary housing can be daunting, especially in high-demand markets like Los Angeles. FEMA’s program ensures that affected families are not left without options during such challenging times.

Whether you need to relocate for repairs, escape hazardous conditions, or seek emergency shelter, FEMA’s assistance could bridge the gap between uncertainty and stability.

Let’s spread the word to ensure no renter is left in the dark about these crucial resources. For additional support, FEMA also provides guidance on emergency preparedness and disaster recovery. Learn more at FEMA.gov.

As we face the new year, it’s clear that the challenges for renters in Los Angeles are far from over. The Tenure View remains committed to being your trusted source for information, resources, and advocacy in the rental landscape.

This week’s wildfires remind us how important it is to protect renters' rights and ensure stable, affordable housing for all. As always, we’ll continue to stand with you in the fight for better housing in 2025.

💡 Have questions or stories to share about your rental experience during the wildfires? Send us an email—we’d love to hear from you!

Until next time,
The Tenure View Team

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