Requirements for Landlords in Unincorporated Los Angeles County: Tenant Right to Counsel and Notification Obligations

By Jonathan Kim (Paralegal) 

Los Angeles County has implemented new requirements for landlords seeking evictions within the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. In an effort to “minimize” tenant displacement and homelessness, Los Angeles County has launched the Tenant Right to Counsel Program, which provides legal assistance to tenants facing unlawful evictions. As part of this initiative, landlords of properties located within the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County must properly notify tenants about the program.  

The Los Angeles County Consumer and Business Affairs has issued an official notice outlining the Tenant Right to Counsel Program and the associated requirements. Landlords must provide this notice when serving a Notice to Vacate or Notice to Terminate Tenancy. Furthermore, Landlords must post a copy of the Notice both in an accessible area of the Property (such as the property lobby or common areas) and in any available on-site management office. The Notice must be provided in English AND in the language in which the lease agreement was written. 

Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Failure to comply with these requirements may result in civil and criminal penalties of up to $800 per offense and/or imprisonment for up to six months in County jail. 

Additional Tenant Notification Requirements 

Under new revisions of the Los Angeles County Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protection Ordinance, Landlords of fully and partially covered rental properties located in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County must provide their tenants with a Notice of Tenant Rights. This notice must be provided when entering or renewing a lease agreement and served in addition to a notice of rent increase or decrease and/or a notice of reduction in housing services. 

Landlords must also post a copy of the Notice both in an accessible area of the Property (such as the property lobby or common areas) and in any available on-site management office. The Notice must be provided in English and in the language in which the lease agreement was written. 

Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Failure to comply with these requirements may result in administrative fines of $1,000; civil and criminal penalties of up to $1,000 per offense; and/or imprisonment for up to six months in County jail. 

Need Legal Assistance? 

Compliance with the County’s requirements is important to prevent fines and potential eviction headaches. If you find yourself facing compliance challenges or legal concerns, take action now. Contact our experienced team at Kendall Law or call 310-619-4941 to schedule a consultation so that we can assist you.