Decorative imageAUGUST 2025

POLICY NEWS: Eviction Policy Changes in Los Angeles and Culver City

L.A. Eliminates “Substantial Remodel” Evictions for Non-RSO Units

On July 1st, the L.A. City Council passed an urgency ordinance removing "substantial remodels" (including major electrical, plumbing, and structural repairs or hazard abatement) as a valid reason for no-fault evictions in all non-rent-stabilized housing. This includes single-family homes, condos, ADUs, and multifamily units built after October 1, 1978.

Key changes:

Infographic outlining tenant protection rules: No-fault evictions for major repairs are banned, violations may cost up to $10,000 plus attorney fees, extra penalties apply for elderly or disabled tenants, and the Rent Adjustment Commission oversees buyout agreements and relocation rules.

⚖️ Culver City to Vote on Rent Freeze & Eviction Moratorium Linked to ICE Activity

The Culver City Council is scheduled to vote on a proposed rent freeze and eviction moratorium on July 13 (Agenda Item A-3), citing recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity as justification.

We urges members with rental properties in Culver City to attend the meeting in person and voice opposition.

WHAT’S BEING PROPOSED

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⚠️ Why Housing Providers Are Concerned:

  • No data has been presented showing ICE-related detainments or deportations among Culver City renters
  • 75% of Culver City residents are U.S.-born; most foreign-born residents are properly documented
  • The proposed freeze/moratorium would apply to all renters, not just those affected
  • Small housing providers—especially mom-and-pop owners—face rising costs (insurance, maintenance, utilities) and cannot afford another freeze
  • The policy could discourage employment and strain small businesses already struggling post-pandemic

✅ A Better Approach:

AAGLA recommends that the City consider direct rental assistance for low-income tenants impacted by ICE, with proof of proceedings and income eligibility.

📣 Take Action:

We encourage all members to send an email to the Culver City Council urging them to vote NO on this proposal.

Banner showing large HVAC units with text: 'Maintenance Tip of the Month – The Benefits of Annual HVAC Maintenance'

1. 💡 Improves Efficiency & Lowers Energy Bills

  • Dirty filters, clogged coils, and worn parts make your system work harder, increasing energy costs.
  • A well-maintained HVAC system can run 10–30% more efficiently.

2. 🛠️ Extends System Lifespan

  • Regular cleaning and tune-ups prevent excessive wear, helping your HVAC last 10–15+ years instead of failing prematurely.

3. 🚨 Prevents Costly Breakdowns

  • Small issues (like refrigerant leaks or electrical problems) can be caught early before they cause major failures.
  • Emergency repairs are often much more expensive than routine maintenance.

4. 🌬️ Ensures Better Air Quality

  • Dust, mold, and allergens build up in ducts and filters, reducing indoor air quality.
  • Cleaning helps reduce respiratory irritants and odors

5. 📄 Maintains Warranty Coverage

  • Many HVAC manufacturers require annual professional servicing to keep the warranty valid.

What Does Annual HVAC Service Include?

A professional HVAC tune-up typically covers:

  • ✅ Inspection – Checking for leaks, corrosion, and electrical issues.
  • ✅ Cleaning – Coils, blower, drain lines, and filters.
  • ✅ Testing – Thermostat calibration, refrigerant levels, and airflow.
  • ✅ Lubrication – Moving parts to reduce friction.
  • ✅ Safety Checks – Carbon monoxide leaks (for furnaces) and gas connections.
Banner with aerial view of suburban houses and text: 'Compliance Updates – New Voucher Standards & Rental Registry Now Open for Unincorporated County Landlords'.

📢 HACLA Announces New Voucher Payment Standards Effective August 1

The Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) has announced changes to its Voucher Payment Standard (VPS), set to take effect August 1, 2025. As part of a cost-saving effort, the VPS will be adjusted from 120% to 110% of Fair Market Rent (FMR) or Small Area Fair Market Rent (SAFMR).

WHO IS AFFECTED?

  • Current Section 8 participants remaining in their existing unit
  • These households will continue to receive the 120% VPS under HUD allowances

WHO IS NOT AFFECTED?

  • High-opportunity areas (Tiers 1-4): VPS will decrease
  • South & East LA. zip codes: VPS will see a slight increase, but remain lower than 2024 rates

📍 Area Impact Overview:

  • High-opportunity areas (Tiers 1–4): VPS will decrease
  • South & East L.A. zip codes: VPS will see a slight increase, but remain lower than 2024 rates

📝 HACLA’s Response:
HACLA has requested funding assistance from HUD and is taking steps to manage program costs. The agency states it remains committed to supporting current participants and protecting access to housing.

📎 [View the full VPS schedule and zip code breakdown here.]

🗂️ Rental Registry Now Open for Unincorporated County Landlords

Landlords in unincorporated Los Angeles County must register their rental properties or mobile home parks and pay annual fees. This applies to most rental units unless specifically exempt.

📝 How to Register:

  1. Create your account through this link.
  2. Use your Property Identification Number (PIN) to locate your property
  3. Update contact, property, and unit information
  4. Submit registration and payment by September 30, 2025 to avoid late fees

❓ Don’t have your PIN?
Email rentregistry@dcba.lacounty.gov with subject line “Need My PIN” and include your name and property address.

🔍 Exemptions May Apply To:

  • Owner-occupied properties
  • Homes destroyed in the January 2025 wildfires
  • Other specific cases (contact the County or visit their website)

📮 Watch your mailbox!

Registration letters are being mailed. You can also pay online, in person, or by mail—just confirm your fee amount with the County first.

📞 Questions?

Call (800) 593-8222 (Mon–Fri, 8:00 A.M.–4:30 P.M.) or email the address above. You can also schedule an appointment here.

NEW PROPERTIES UNDER MANAGEMENT

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