Another Eviction Moratorium? What LA Property Owners Need to Know

A Familiar Story with New Justifications

On Wednesday, February 5th, at 2:30 PM, the City of Los Angeles Housing & Homeless Committee will vote on a new eviction moratorium—this time citing the Eaton & Palisades fires as the justification.

For property owners who endured the policies enacted during the pandemic, this is a concerning development. The last moratorium placed financial burdens squarely on landlords, many of whom struggled to cover costs while unpaid rent stacked up. Now, LA officials are considering another blanket restriction, without addressing the long-term consequences for rental property owners.

How This Could Impact Property Owners

A broad eviction moratorium affects more than just tenants. Here’s what landlords need to be prepared for:

• Loss of Rental Income: A citywide policy could mean delayed or missed rent payments, while owners still cover mortgages, property taxes, and maintenance.


• Legal Uncertainty: Housing laws in LA continue to shift, making it harder for landlords to manage their properties with confidence.


• Increased Costs: If past moratoriums are any indication, landlords could be left with mounting debt, legal fees, and prolonged disputes over unpaid rent.


• Limited Property Rights: These policies often restrict an owner’s ability to manage their investments effectively, leaving them with fewer options.

Why This Policy Fails to Address the Real Problem

While the city presents this as a solution for fire-affected residents, broad eviction bans do not solve the underlying issues in LA’s housing crisis.

Instead of another rushed policy, the city should focus on:

• Targeted relief for those directly affected by the fires


• Funding assistance programs that support tenants without shifting the burden to landlords


• Clear rental policies that protect both tenants and property owners

A one-size-fits-all approach has failed before, and it will fail again.

What Property Owners Can Do Now

If you own rental property in LA, now is the time to take action. The more voices that speak up, the harder it is for policymakers to ignore the consequences of their decisions.

Stay informed. Stay engaged. Protect your property rights.