California Cracks Down on Illegal Rent Hikes After LA Fires

Landlords face legal action for exploiting wildfire victims by raising rents beyond California's 10% cap during a declared state of emergency.

The Los Angeles fires have destroyed over 12,000 structures, displaced hundreds of thousands, and left thousands without housing.
California law prohibits landlords from raising rent by more than 10% for 30 days after a state of emergency is declared, with violations punishable by fines or jail time.
Reports reveal numerous instances of landlords sharply increasing rents, with some properties seeing hikes as high as 125%, sparking scrutiny from officials.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta and LA County Sheriff Robert Luna have vowed to prosecute landlords engaging in price gouging, emphasizing that ignorance of the law is not an excuse.
Governor Gavin Newsom extended the price gouging protections for LA County through January 2026 and suspended certain construction regulations to expedite rebuilding efforts.