Navigating eviction laws in Los Angeles can be overwhelming for landlords and investors, even those with a lot of experience in this market. That’s because the laws are strict, and they’re constantly changing. There’s also a statewide rent control mandate in addition to the local ordinance, and that covers some rental properties that aren’t covered under LA’s local eviction laws. Just keeping up can be exhausting.
Whether you’re managing one property or a large portfolio, understanding local laws is critical to running a compliant and successful rental business. LA’s tenant protection laws are some of the most stringent in the nation, and failing to follow them can lead to costly legal disputes.
As your Los Angeles property management expert, we’re providing landlords with a brief guide that breaks down the essentials of eviction laws in Los Angeles. This will help you stay informed and prepared. Plus, we’ll share expert tips and strategies to protect your investments while maintaining strong tenant relationships.
Key Eviction Laws Every LA Landlord Must Kno
Here’s an overview of the most important eviction laws in Los Angeles and what they mean for landlords.
- Just Cause Protections
Under LA’s local laws, landlords cannot evict tenants without a legitimate reason, also called “just cause.” Some acceptable reasons for eviction include:
- Non-payment of rent. This is the most common reason for eviction, and usually comes with the most straightforward process.
- Breach of lease terms or nuisance. Maybe your tenants are causing damage or disrupting neighbors. If they do not correct the problem or the lease violation, landlords can pursue an eviction.
- Owner move-in. When the landlord or even a family member of the landlord needs to live in the property, an existing tenant can be evicted.
- Renovations or demolitions. If you’re going to make extensive changes that leave the property temporarily uninhabitable, you can evict your tenant in order to make those remodels. But, there are strict local ordinances and landlords must comply with them.
- Unlawful Activities. If there are any criminal activities happening at your rental property, you have the right to evict a tenant immediately. Make sure they’re well-documented.
However, evictions must be appropriately documented, and landlords must notify tenants in writing. Without just cause, landlords cannot ask tenants to vacate.
- L.A. Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO)
Many rental properties in LA are subject to the Rent Stabilization Ordinance, which limits rent increases and adds extra protections for tenants. This ordinance applies to most residential properties built before 1979. If your property is under the RSO, it’s essential to understand any additional eviction restrictions, notification timelines, and relocation fee obligations.
Remember that there is also statewide rent stabilization. Just because your rental property is exempt from the local LA rent stabilization ordinance does not mean it does not fall under the controls in the Tenant Protection Act of 2019.
- Relocation Assistance for No-Fault Evictions
If the eviction is due to a “no-fault cause” (like owner move-ins or building demolitions), landlords may be required to pay relocation fees to tenants. The exact fee depends on the tenant’s circumstances, household size, and income. Failure to provide proper relocation compensation can result in legal penalties. Typically, it’s around the equivalent of one month’s rent.
- The Notice Periods Matter
Evictions in Los Angeles require proper written notice to tenants. The notice period can vary depending on the cause of eviction. When you’re evicting for nonpayment of rent or due to a lease violation, you’ll serve a 3-Day Notice. There’s a 30 or 90-Day Notice for no-fault evictions, depending on how long the tenant has lived on the property.
Ensuring the notice is clear, accurate, and delivered according to legal guidelines is critical for a successful case.
What Landlords Should Avoid During Evictions
Even the most experienced landlords are prone to making mistakes when handling tenant disputes or evictions. It’s very easy to trip over a legal landmine, and that usually sets you back in removing a tenant from your property. Don’t make things more difficult. Here’s what you should avoid at all costs:
- Skipping proper documentation. Evictions require precise notices and written communication. Make sure you have all the right paperwork submitted and every notice and correspondence documented.
- Retaliating against tenants. Taking adverse action after tenants file complaints or exercise legal rights is illegal and can lead to penalties. Even the perception of retaliation is a problem.
- Self-help evictions. This includes actions like changing locks, removing tenant belongings, or cutting off utilities to force them out. These tactics are not only unethical but also illegal in LA.
Stick to legal channels and a fair process to resolve disputes responsibly. Talk to an LA property management expert or an experienced eviction attorney before you head to court.
How to Handle Evictions in Los Angeles the Right Way
For landlords, the most effective approach to dealing with tenant evictions is to combine knowledge of the law with professional assistance. Here’s how you can approach the process:
1.Start with Clear Communication
Before initiating an eviction, communicate openly with tenants to resolve disputes or address unpaid rent. Often, problems can be resolved without escalating the situation.
2. File Paperwork Carefully
Ensure notices and legal documents are correctly prepared and delivered. Any errors in documentation could slow the eviction process or result in dismissal.
3. Hire a Property Manager or Landlord Attorney
Working with an experienced real estate attorney can save you time, stress, and money. They’ll guide you through each step while protecting your rights. At Earnest Homes, we partner with some of the best legal minds in real estate and rental law, and we’ll make sure that you have the best team ensuring a fast and efficient eviction.
4. Maintain Professionalism
Treat tenants with respect, even during disputes. Maintaining professionalism ensures your reputation as a landlord is upheld.
Building Better Landlord-Tenant Relationships
A positive landlord-tenant relationship not only minimizes disputes but also ensures a better experience for both parties. Beyond handling evictions carefully, focus on open communication, timely property maintenance, and fair policies to foster trust. There’s less eviction risk when you have a good relationship with your residents.
There’s also a much lower eviction risk when you’re working with LA property management professionals. Contact us at Earnest Homes.
