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Wildfires and Rising Rents: What Every SoCal Renter Needs to Know
Welcome to The Tenure View!
Happy New Year, Tenure View readers! While we hoped to start 2025 with optimism, the recent wildfires across Southern California have brought unique challenges for renters and communities alike. As we face the dual crises of housing affordability and natural disasters, this issue focuses on the realities renters are navigating and actionable steps to protect your housing rights.
Main Article: "Wildfires and Rent Hikes: What’s Happening and How to Stay Protected" 🌪️
The Sunset Fire, Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire, and Woodley Fire have left scars across Southern California, impacting neighborhoods from the Hollywood Hills to Altadena and Ventura County. As we rebuild, another issue looms for many renters: skyrocketing rents and illegal price gouging. Here’s what’s happening and how to stay protected:
1. Illegal Rent Hikes on the Rise
In the wake of the wildfires, some landlords are exploiting the situation by raising rents beyond the legal limits. Under California’s anti-price gouging laws, rent increases during a state of emergency cannot exceed 10%. However, reports show hikes as high as 86% in certain areas.
What You Can Do: If you’ve received an excessive rent increase notice, report it to the California Attorney General’s office immediately. Tenants in affected areas have protections—use them!
2. Housing Shortage Worsens
With thousands of homes destroyed or damaged, demand for rental housing is at an all-time high. Displaced residents are competing for an already limited supply, driving prices up and making affordability a distant dream for many.
What This Means for Renters: Be proactive. Secure lease renewals early, and familiarize yourself with local tenant protections. Organizations like Stay Housed LA offer free resources and legal aid.
3. Know Your Rights Under Rent Control
Rent-controlled apartments in Los Angeles are still subject to caps on rent increases. However, these protections don’t extend to all renters.
Key Takeaway: Landlords can only raise rents by 4% (plus 2% if they cover gas and electricity). If you live in a rent-controlled unit and receive notice of a higher increase, it’s likely illegal.
4. Preparing for Natural Disasters
The wildfires remind us of the importance of renter preparedness. Here are a few quick tips:
Document Your Belongings: Take photos or videos of your rental unit to protect your deposit and insurance claims.
Air Quality Safety: Use N95 masks and air purifiers during high smoke periods. Many cities offer free distribution points—check local listings.
Renter’s Insurance: If you don’t have it, now is the time. Policies often cover temporary relocation costs due to disasters.
Community Spotlight: 211 LA 🌟
In times of crisis, resources like 211 LA serve as a lifeline for Southern California residents. As the designated information and referral service for Los Angeles County, 211 LA connects individuals and families to vital resources, including housing support, disaster relief, and mental health services.
During the recent wildfires, 211 LA has been instrumental in providing assistance to those impacted, offering guidance on emergency shelter options, evacuation protocols, and recovery resources. Beyond disaster response, they also provide year-round support, helping residents navigate challenges like rent assistance, food insecurity, and healthcare access.
Why It Matters: Whether you're looking for temporary housing after a disaster or seeking long-term solutions to housing instability, 211 LA is there to guide you every step of the way.
How to Access Help: Dial 2-1-1 or visit their website to explore a range of resources tailored to your specific needs.
By addressing immediate needs and connecting individuals to long-term support, 211 LA exemplifies what it means to empower and uplift our community. If you or someone you know is in need, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Quick Tips: Protecting Your Housing in 2025
As we enter the new year, here are three things every renter should do:
Review Your Lease: Know your rights and obligations, especially if you're in a rent-controlled unit.
Report Issues Promptly: Whether it’s repairs or suspected price gouging, acting early protects your home and wallet.
Stay Informed: Subscribe to newsletters (like ours!) and follow local tenant advocacy groups for updates.
Closing Thoughts & Thank You
Thank you for being part of The Tenure View in 2024. Your support and engagement fuel our mission to empower renters across Southern California. As we step into 2025, expect even more actionable resources, community stories, and advocacy efforts from us. Together, we’ll continue making a difference for renters everywhere.
💌 Share this newsletter with a friend and help us grow our community!
Until next time,
The Tenure View Team
