Los Angeles Unincorporated Areas Launch New Rental Housing Inspection Program

Starting November 2024, rental property owners in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County will see a change in their responsibilities. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health will begin administering a comprehensive Rental Housing Habitability Program (RHHP), following the enactment of two key ordinances—Chapter 8.53 and 8.55 of the Los Angeles County Code—by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on April 23, 2024.

Understanding the New Rental Housing Inspection Program

The RHHP is designed to enhance the safety and habitability of rental housing across all unincorporated areas of Los Angeles. This initiative applies to all rental properties, including single-family homes, ensuring that every rental unit meets the necessary health and safety standards.

Key Aspects of the Program:

1) Annual Inspections: Starting November 2024, the Department of Public Health will conduct inspections of all rental units.  The RHHP has a process for completing a prescheduled inspection of each rental unit once every 4 years. Public Health will also respond to housing habitability made by tenants.

2) Funding the Program: To fund this new initiative, rental property owners will be assessed an annual fee of $86 per rental unit. This fee will appear on the property tax bill issued for 2024-25 by the Los Angeles County Treasurer - Tax Collector.

3) Cost Sharing with Tenants: Property owners are authorized to pass 50% of the annual fee to their tenants. This translates to a monthly charge of $3.58 per rental unit, which owners may begin collecting starting July 2024.

Implications for Property Owners:

• Financial Impact: The annual fee is an additional cost that property owners need to account for in their budgeting and financial planning. However, the ability to share this cost with tenants helps to mitigate the financial burden.
• Compliance Requirements: Owners must ensure their properties meet the health and safety standards set by the inspection program to avoid penalties and maintain good standing.
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