It might have seemed that the eviction moratorium in California related to the COVID-19 pandemic had ended by 2022.
The answer is yes and no.
On Jan. 31, 2023 the Los Angeles City Council made a unanimous decision to cease key renter protections that had previously been in place for those facing financial difficulty due to COVID-19 hardships. This means protection to lower-income tenants who can’t keep up with rent payments due to COVID-19 will end on February 1st.
What rental properties are affected by this Moratorium?
Effective January 31st, 2023, the majority of special tenant protections brought about by COVID-19 will no longer be in effect. These include every rental property in the County, from unincorporated areas to any incorporated cities without stricter COVID-19 tenant protections, is subject to the new regulations.
What resident protections will remain in place indefinitely?
The Los Angeles Board of Supervisors has taken steps to ensure extended rental protections for residential tenants supported by County non-payment policies in the latter part of 2022.
- Tenants occupying a property cannot be evicted in a Non-Fault eviction; only in cases of qualified Owner Move-in or other violations such as nuisance, unauthorized occupants and pets may they receive an eviction notice.
- Resident protections against harassment and retaliation remain in place.
What Does The Eviction Moratorium Mean For Renters?
Eviction protections are available to tenants financially impacted by COVID-19; however, it’s important that renters meet the relevant criteria. If applicable, landlords must adhere to local eviction moratoriums.
After the expiration of federal and state eviction moratoriums (February 1st), tenant rental rights will revert to pre-moratorium status. That means landlords may once again begin or proceed with evictions as part of their normal course of action.
At Sands Law Group, we understand the complexities of rental property law in Los Angeles County and are eager to provide tailored insights for any impacted tenants. Our experienced team is ready to assist with navigating these changing regulations now – and ensuring a secure future for your real estate investments.
What The Eviction Moratorium Means For Landlords?
As Los Angeles homeowners grapple with a wave of property law adjustments, we are here to provide clarity. Despite the possibility that landlords may be able to raise rents or evict troublesome tenants soon, rest assured that certain rights remain in place, which must be respected and adhered-to by all parties involved in any real estate transaction.
According to the CDC’s order, any action that causes a covered tenant to be evicted is considered an eviction. In addition to legal eviction of a tenant, such as filing an eviction, illegal eviction of a tenant may include locking out the tenant or shutting off the utilities.
At Sands Law Group, we understand the complexities of rental laws during tough times. We are here to represent you if you have been illegally evicted in Los Angeles County. Our experienced team is ready to assist with navigating these changing regulations now – and ensuring a secure future for your real estate investments.
- Follow State Laws: As a landlord, it’s important to remain aware of legal obligations and requirements when evicting tenants. Not fulfilling local or state laws could result in hefty fines. To inform yourself of the associated regulations for your area, consult with Sands Law Group—we will assist you every step of the way.
- Rent must be paid eventually: During COVID-19, tenants have been shielded from eviction for rent nonpayment due to COVID-related circumstances. However, landlords are now entitled to seek repayment plans and other legal means when it is safe or feasible to do so. Those who were unable to pay their rents as a result of the pandemic will be granted some leeway in paying back what they owed during these trying months:
- Tenants must honor their rental agreement and pay the full amount of rent owed from March 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021 by August 1st 2023.
- Tenants must pay rent for the two years period from October 2021 to January 2023 by February 2024.
- Landlords must provide a statement on any rental assistance they have accepted prior to filing for a Summons to Evict. This is required in order to ensure all legal parameters are followed and tenant rights are respected.
What Happens If A Landlord Violates The Eviction Moratorium?
Violating the eviction moratorium can have drastic repercussions. Landlords may face criminal penalties, such as hefty fines or jail time, if they break it and will be prosecuted by the United States Department of Justice.
A Los Angeles Real Estate Lawyer Can Help
As a landlord or tenant, it is important to be knowledgeable about your rights and responsibilities. To make sure you are properly informed of the legal aspects of this situation entails, it’s best to seek advice from an experienced lawyer.
Looking for legal advice? The Sands Law Group has your back. We are here to help you understand and utilize the rights granted to you by law, as well as provide further action if needed – all at the call of a phone or click of an email away! Reach out on 213-788-4412 or contact us today for our expert support through any legal matters big and small.
