Los Angeles-area families are struggling with skyrocketing rents as authorities warn of illegal price hikes following recent wildfires
Los Angeles: Joe Thompson and his family are in a tough spot after wildfires hit their neighborhood. They found a five-bedroom rental in Santa Monica for a jaw-dropping $28,000 a month, which is more than double what it was last year. The landlord wanted three months’ rent upfront, and there were already multiple applications in. They decided to keep looking instead of jumping at that price.
Thompson, his partner, and their two kids were displaced by a wildfire that damaged their Pacific Palisades home. They’re unsure about the extent of the damage or when they can return. Now, they’re among many searching for housing in a city that was already struggling with a housing shortage.
With so many people looking for places, some landlords are raising prices on short-term rentals, which seems to break California laws that limit price increases during emergencies. Authorities are urging residents to report any price gouging they see.
State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin called the situation “unacceptable and illegal” during a news conference. The Attorney General’s office hasn’t shared details about any complaints, but it’s clear that when disasters strike, rents often skyrocket, leaving many families in a bind.
In Los Angeles County, some renters are facing waiting lists and bidding wars, with some landlords asking for a year’s rent upfront. Brock Harris, a real estate broker, mentioned that many homeowners are about to learn just how tough the rental market can be.
After the wildfires, which destroyed over 12,300 structures and burned more than 40,000 acres, many families are left with nothing. Some are staying with friends or in hotels, while others are in temporary shelters set up by the state. Airbnb.org is also stepping in to help provide free temporary housing.
Magdaleno Rosales from the Los Angeles Tenants Union is tracking reports of rental price gouging and has received over 450 tips, with some rents increasing by 100% or more. He’s worried about working-class tenants facing evictions as landlords try to cash in on the crisis.
Despite the grim situation, there are also stories of kindness. Tannis Mann, who lost her home, is living with her sister and has noticed some landlords keeping prices steady or even lowering them. She’s avoiding listings with price hikes, wanting to support fair landlords.
Ashley and Tim Polmateer, who lost their home, have been searching for a new place but have seen rents jump by $1,000 in just days. They’re currently in an Airbnb with their kids and puppy, hoping to find something soon.
Thompson is still on the hunt, staying in a hotel while looking for a rental near his kids’ schools. He recently found a place with a reasonable price, but there were 70 other interested parties. “It’s insane,” he said, highlighting the desperation many are feeling.
This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
