In response to the ongoing tragedy caused by the fires still ablaze, public officials and private landlords in Los Angeles are taking compassionate action. Recognizing the hardships evacuees face, they are implementing programs and passing laws to prevent significant price gouging on rental properties in the region.

State officials have extended temporary price gouging restrictions through March 8. This compassionate move ensures that landlords in Los Angeles cannot increase rents by more than 10% above what they were charging or advertising before January 7. This measure aims to protect displaced residents from unfair rental costs during these challenging times.

Too many people across the region have fallen prey to predatory practices by some businesses and landlords. These unethical actions include exorbitant rent hikes by those looking to profit from the suffering of evacuees. The Ponce Real Estate Group underscores that such practices are not only morally wrong but also illegal. They stand firm against this exploitation and advocate for justice.  Viktorie of The Ponce Real Estate Group found one rental that was $9,000 that jumped to $12,000 a month the day after the fires.  That owner and agent were reported to the authorities.

In a unified effort, 15 commercial real estate companies and organizations, led by the California Apartment Association, have formed the LA Wildfires CRE Pledge for Action. This coalition is dedicated to educating peers about the rules governing rent hikes. They also highlight penalties for violations, work with third-party listing services to flag offenders, and promote available rental options to evacuees.

Many multifamily landlords feel unjustly associated with luxury homeowners who are trying to exploit the situation. In response, multifamily property owners across Los Angeles are coming forward with empathy. They are offering rent deals and special packages to support evacuees.

The wildfires have caused massive evacuations, with around 88,000 people displaced and another 84,800 under warnings as of Thursday. As evacuees search for temporary housing, some unscrupulous landlords have hiked rental rates for single-family homes, condos, and multifamily units.

Despite these challenges, organizations like the Coalition for Economic Survival strive to uphold tenant rights. They ensure violators of the price gouging law, Penal Code 396, face consequences to prevent further exploitation.

Even without intentional price gouging, the fires could inadvertently lead to rising rents due to the sudden reduction in available housing. More than 7,400 multifamily units are at risk of destruction, leaving many residents scrambling for temporary shelter.

Ultimately, while some isolated rent hikes are noted in luxury areas like Brentwood and Santa Monica, the collective efforts of compassionate landlords and organizations highlight the importance of empathy and justice during this devastating crisis.

Frank (310) 503-4158, Viktorie (424) 301-0075.