If you’re a renter in LA right now, the pressure is coming from all sides—rents are rising faster than ever, landlords are still finding ways to push people out, and disaster survivors are competing in bidding wars just to land a place to sleep.

But this week, there’s one glimmer of relief: the LA City Council voted to shut down a major eviction loophole.

Let’s unpack what it means for you—and why it still might not be enough.

For years, landlords in LA could legally evict tenants by claiming a remodel would take longer than 30 days—no relocation required. Now, the City Council just voted 11–0 to eliminate that rule.

Instead, landlords may soon be required to temporarily relocate tenants and allow them to return after renovations—a massive shift from the old playbook of evict, renovate, and raise the rent.

Tenant advocates are calling this a win.

But the fight isn’t over. The law still needs a second vote, and landlords are already pushing back, claiming it will make much-needed repairs “financially impossible.”

In the wake of the recent LA-area wildfires, renters like a couple who lost their Altadena home—were suddenly thrown into one of the most competitive rental markets in recent history.

Real estate agents say renters are now “bidding” on units like they’re homes for sale—offering thousands over list price just to secure a place.

And those without savings or insurance payouts? They’re getting left behind.

Southern California’s inflation is up to 5.2%, and under California’s rent cap law, that means landlords can raise rents by up to 8.9% this year. And while laws like this are meant to stabilize housing, they only protect current tenants.

If your unit goes vacant—even under a “remodel” excuse—your landlord can reset the rent to market rate.

City leaders want to push for climate upgrades like electrifying buildings and phasing out gas appliances. But tenant advocates warn: without strong renter protections, these green efforts could become the next excuse to displace people.

The Sierra Club agrees.

Landlords argue that relocation requirements and slow city processing make repairs more difficult—but for tenants, the consequences of inaction are far worse.

Most renters don’t know this exists—but LA already has a program designed to keep you housed during repairs.

The Tenant Habitability Program (THP) requires landlords to:

This program is underused—but as these new laws roll out, it could become your best protection against forced eviction disguised as remodeling.

Learn more here: housing.lacity.org

This week makes it crystal clear:

But renters are fighting back.
And City Hall is starting to listen.

Know your rights. Share this newsletter. And don’t let “remodel” become code for “removal.”

Until next week,
The Tenure View Team

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