As the Palisades Fire forces many Los Angeles residents to evacuate and seek temporary housing, the risk of rental price gouging has become a pressing concern. California’s anti-price gouging law, Penal Code Section 396, prohibits raising the cost of essential goods and services, including rental housing, by more than 10% during a declared state of emergency. These protections are crucial to ensuring fairness during times of crisis.
Price gouging laws apply to both existing tenants and new leases, meaning landlords cannot drastically increase rent for those displaced by the fire. Violators may face significant penalties, including fines of up to $10,000 and potential jail time.
If you suspect price gouging, reporting it promptly is essential. There are several ways to take action:
- File a complaint with the California Attorney General’s Office: You can submit a consumer complaint online through the Attorney General’s website at oag.ca.gov/contact/consumer-complaint-against-business-or-company.
- Contact the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA): Visit dcba.lacounty.gov/portfolio/price-gouging/ for detailed information and to file a report.
- Call 311: Residents of Los Angeles can use the city’s 311 service to report suspected price gouging directly.
By staying vigilant and utilizing these resources, we can help protect vulnerable families and ensure fair housing practices in this challenging time. If you or someone you know has been impacted, don’t hesitate to report unfair practices—it’s a vital step toward accountability and justice.