This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
Some LA renters can now fall behind by two months and still be protected from eviction
The Stanley Mosk Courthouse in downtown L.A., where many local eviction cases are handled, is one of the nation’s busiest trial courts.
(
David Wagner
/
LAist
)
Topline:
Starting Thursday, some Los Angeles County renters will be allowed to fall behind by about two months' worth of rent and still have local protections from eviction.
The background: Citing economic fallout from federal immigration raids, the county Board of Supervisors recently voted to let tenants rack up more rent debt before landlords can evict them. Until now, renters have been allowed to fall behind by one month’s worth of fair-market rent, a level that is set by the federal government. The new rule doubles that to two months.
Where it applies: The new rent-debt rules apply only to tenants living in unincorporated parts of L.A. County, such as East L.A., City Terrace and Altadena. Details on local fair-market rents, which vary depending on how many bedrooms an apartment contains, can be found on this county website.
The debate: Tenant advocates — and at least one county supervisor — previously pushed for a three-month rent-debt threshold that would have applied countywide. But landlords said even the more limited two-month rule unfairly burdens property owners and likely will lead to tougher tenant screening.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
