Jason Oppenheim claims landlords in Los Angeles are illegally hiking rents amid wildfires
In a recent chat with the BBC, he highlighted how some landlords are taking advantage of the crisis. The fires have already caused significant destruction, with at least 24 lives lost and thousands of homes damaged.
Oppenheim shared a story about a client who wanted to rent a place listed for $13,000 a month. After offering $20,000 and six months upfront, the landlord countered with $23,000. That’s just wild!
California has laws that limit rent increases to 10% after an emergency is declared. Governor Newsom has even extended the ban on price gouging until January 2026.
Violating these laws can lead to serious consequences, including jail time or hefty fines. The Attorney General has also warned that anyone caught price gouging will face accountability.
With many displaced residents searching for housing, prices are skyrocketing. Some listings have seen increases of over 80%. The situation is tense, especially with the fires still burning and dry winds complicating firefighting efforts.
Areas like Pacific Palisades, known for its luxury homes, have been hit hard, affecting even celebrities. It’s a tough time for everyone in LA right now.
