In times of crisis, such as natural disasters, renters may face a range of challenges, including price gouging, housing instability and unlawful evictions. At HotPads, we’re dedicated to ensuring a fair rental marketplace, and our users must adhere to housing laws.
Understand Price Gouging Laws:
In California, landlords cannot raise rents more than 10% for properties listed before the state of emergency declaration. If you suspect price gouging, the California Attorney General’s office has provided resources for reporting price gouging, scams, fraud and other crimes. You can:
- Visit oag.ca.gov/LAfires
- Call their hotline at: (800) 952-5225.
Stay Alert for Scams:
Demand for rentals could attract scammers. Protect yourself by verifying listings, never paying before seeing a property, and watching for red flags. Read more tips to avoid rental fraud on Zillow’s resources page.
Tenant Protections During the Emergency:
Landlords must follow legal procedures for evictions, even during a state of emergency. Under Governor Newsom’s January 17, 2025 executive order, tenants cannot be evicted solely for sheltering individuals displaced by the Southern California wildfires, though landlords may still enforce terms related to criminal activity or property damage. This protection is in effect until March 8, 2025.
HotPads is committed to promoting fair renting practices. Stay informed and proactive to protect yourself during this challenging time.
For more information on California state of emergency laws, visit the California Attorney General’s website.
Additional resources for those impacted by the Southern California wildfires are available at Ca.gov/LAfires.