Displaced by the Palisades and Eaton Fires: Temporary Housing Options and Rights
Temporary Housing Options
For those displaced by the Palisades and Eaton fires, finding a place to stay can be a daunting task, especially in a region with a persistent housing shortage. However, there are temporary housing options available.
AirBnB.org, a nonprofit that works with AirBnB hosts, is providing free, temporary housing for those displaced by the fires. Those in need of housing can fill out an application through 211 LA, an organization partnering with AirBnB.org on the effort.
Local hotels are also offering discounted rates for those affected by the fires. For more information, click on the following links: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-09/what-protections-to-displaced-angelenos-have-in-finding-new-housing and https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-09/what-protections-to-displaced-angelenos-have-in-finding-new-housing.
Price Gouging Protections
Earlier this week, Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in Los Angeles County, establishing protections against price gouging. This means that landlords can generally not charge more than 10% above what they were charging or advertising before the state of emergency, which took effect on January 7, according to the California Attorney General’s office. These price gouging protections also apply beyond the housing market to items like food, gas, and medical supplies.
If a home was not rented or advertised before the state of emergency, there are protections as well. In such a case, the attorney general’s office says landlords can’t charge more than 160% of fair market value as determined by the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development.
California Atty. General Rob Bonta has encouraged the public to report price gouging to his office by using an online form available at https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-09/what-protections-to-displaced-angelenos-have-in-finding-new-housing.
Price gouging protections generally are in place for 30 days following the declaration of a state of emergency, but can be extended.
Workshops and Insurance Claims
The tenant advocacy group Coalition for Economic Survival is holding Saturday workshops for existing renters and those now in need of a rental to learn more about their rights.
If your home was completely destroyed, your insurance company must immediately pay you a minimum of four months’ worth of rent for the local area in which you live. You should contact your insurer and start the process as soon as you are in a safe place. More information on dealing with your insurance company, including on issues of rebuilding, can be found at https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-09/what-protections-to-displaced-angelenos-have-in-finding-new-housing.
Conclusion
The Palisades and Eaton fires have caused widespread displacement and destruction in Los Angeles County, making it challenging for those affected to find temporary housing and navigate the housing market. However, there are temporary housing options and price gouging protections in place to help. By taking advantage of these resources and being aware of their rights, those affected by the fires can work towards rebuilding their lives.
FAQs
Q: How can I apply for temporary housing?
A: You can apply for temporary housing through 211 LA by filling out an application with AirBnB.org.
Q: What are the price gouging protections?
A: Price gouging protections prohibit landlords from charging more than 10% above what they were charging or advertising before the state of emergency, which took effect on January 7.
Q: What should I do if I am unable to pay my rent due to the fires?
A: You should contact your insurance company and start the process as soon as you are in a safe place. They must immediately pay you a minimum of four months’ worth of rent for the local area in which you live.
Q: How can I report price gouging?
A: You can report price gouging to the California Attorney General’s office by using an online form available at https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-09/what-protections-to-displaced-angelenos-have-in-finding-new-housing.
Q: What are the price gouging protections for homes not rented or advertised before the state of emergency?
A: Landlords can’t charge more than 160% of fair market value as determined by the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development.
