Decorative imageMAY 2025

54% NONCOMPLIANT: WHAT THE LATEST FAIR HOUSING TEST MEANS FOR YOU

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Are your rental policies leaving you exposed?

A new fair housing report has revealed alarming trends that could put unprepared property owners and managers at serious legal risk. Here's what you need to know—and how to protect your investments with professional support.

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Key Takeaways

  • More than half of properties tested failed compliance.The California Civil Rights Department and Housing Rights Center found that 54% of the 54 rental properties tested in LA and Ventura counties in 2024 violated fair housing laws—especially concerning Section 8 voucher acceptance.
  • “No Section 8” policies are illegal.Since 2020, rejecting applicants based on their use of housing assistance, or using exclusionary language in listings, has been against the law in California.
  • Criminal history screening must be nuanced.Blanket bans on applicants with criminal backgrounds may result in discriminatory practices—even if unintended—due to their disproportionate impact on protected classes.
  • Testing can happen any time, anywhere.The Civil Rights Department warns: housing providers are subject to surprise testing. Staying current on policies is no longer optional—it’s your first line of defense.
  • Education is your best protection.As CAA’s legal VP Whitney Prout says, even well-meaning providers can stumble. Frequent training and regular policy reviews are essential for compliance and risk mitigation.

Don’t leave compliance to chance.

At Power Property Management, we stay on top of the latest laws so you don’t have to. Our experienced team ensures your property practices meet current regulations—from advertising and screening to day-to-day tenant relations.

Let us help you stay compliant and protected. Contact us today for property consultation.

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MAJOR RATE HIKE ALERT: LA TRASH HAULING FEES SET TO SURGE IN 2026

The City of Los Angeles has approved a steep increase in trash hauling fees — with some property owners facing up to a 130% jump starting January 1, 2026. This isn’t just another fee change — it’s a major budget shift that could impact operating costs for thousands of property owners and investors.

Tabla titulada 'RATE INCREASES' que muestra los aumentos de tarifas por unidad y por mes en diferentes años fiscales. Incluye los siguientes datos: 2026-27: $59.53 por unidad, por mes (+54%), 2027-28: $60.44 por unidad, por mes (+1.5%), 2028-29: $63.27 por unidad, por mes (+4.6%), 2029-30: $65.93 por unidad, por mes (+4.2%).

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Massive Rate Hike Begins in 2026: Fees for trash hauling services provided by LASAN will rise to $59.53 per unit/month — up from $24.33–$36.32 depending on property type. This harmonizes rates for single-family homes and 2–4 unit properties.
  • Four-Year Escalation Plan: Annual increases are scheduled through 2029–30, bringing the rate up to $65.93/unit/month. These are aimed at making the program self-sustaining amid LA’s $1B budget shortfall.
  • Extra Bin Fees Climb Too: Fees for additional bins will nearly double or more. For instance, a 60-gallon refuse bin will cost $15.65 (up from $10), and organics will jump to $16.28 (from $7.50).
  • Public Feedback Opportunity — But It’s Unlikely to Change: While a public hearing and mailed notices are required before finalizing the hike, historical trends suggest limited participation or objection from property owners.
  • Why It Matters: Trash fees haven’t changed since 2008. The City argues the new rates simply align with neighboring cities like Santa Monica and Burbank — but this could pressure your NOI if you manage or own small residential buildings.

Navigating utility cost changes can be time-consuming — that’s where we come in. At Power Property Management, we help property owners optimize expenses, stay compliant with new regulations, and safeguard profitability.

Schedule a free consultation to assess how these fee changes affect your property portfolio. Let our experts take care of the complexities so you can focus on growing your investments.