Rebuilding and Renting After the Los Angeles Wildfires: A Guide for Property Owners and Tenants

The recent Eaton Canyon and Palisades wildfires have left a lasting impact on the Los Angeles

housing market, causing extensive property damage and drastically reducing rental availability.

Whether you're a landlord looking to rebuild or a tenant searching for housing, understanding

the post-wildfire landscape is crucial.

Recovering from Wildfire Damage: A Guide for Property Owners

The aftermath of a wildfire can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help property

owners recover efficiently. Here’s a guide to navigating this challenging process:

Assessing and Repairing Property Damage

1. Evaluate the Damage

◦ Contact your insurance provider immediately to report damage and begin the claims

process.

◦ Hire a licensed inspector to assess structural integrity and safety concerns.

◦ Document damage thoroughly with photos and videos for insurance purposes.

2. Navigating Insurance Claims

◦ Review your policy to understand coverage for repairs, loss of rental income, and

temporary housing costs for displaced tenants.

◦ Work with an adjuster to ensure you receive fair compensation.

◦ Keep records of all repair costs and communications with your insurance company.

3. Understanding Rebuilding Regulations

◦ Obtain the necessary permits from the Los Angeles Department of Building and

Safety.

◦ Follow updated building codes, which may include fire-resistant materials and new

safety standards.

◦ Consider retrofitting older properties to be more resilient against future wildfires.

Implementing Fair Rental Practices Post-Disaster

Wildfires often lead to rental shortages, which unfortunately can result in price gouging. As a

responsible landlord, here’s how you can set fair rental prices while maintaining ethical business

practices:

1. Understand Rent Control and Emergency Pricing Laws

◦ Los Angeles has strict rent control policies that limit rent increases.

◦ California’s anti-price gouging law (Penal Code 396) prohibits rent hikes of more

than 10% after a declared state of emergency.

2. Be Transparent with Tenants

◦ Clearly communicate any necessary rent adjustments.

◦ Provide written justifications for increases to maintain trust and compliance.

3. Support Community Recovery

◦ Offer flexible lease terms or temporary rental reductions to help displaced tenants.

◦ Partner with local assistance programs to provide housing for those in need.

Navigating the Post-Wildfire Rental Market as a Tenant

With housing availability decreasing due to wildfire damage, tenants are facing increased

competition and potential rent hikes. Here’s how to navigate this difficult market:

1. Finding Available Housing

◦ Use local rental listings, property management companies, and government

assistance programs to find housing.

◦ Consider expanding your search radius to less affected areas.

2. Knowing Your Tenant Rights

◦ Report any rent increases that violate California’s anti-price gouging laws.

◦ Ensure that your new lease complies with Los Angeles’ tenant protection policies.

3. Seeking Financial Assistance

◦ Apply for emergency rental assistance programs and FEMA aid.

◦ Contact nonprofit organizations that provide temporary housing support.

The post-wildfire housing crisis is challenging for both landlords and tenants, but by staying

informed and proactive, we can work towards rebuilding a fair and sustainable rental market.

Property owners should focus on ethical practices and responsible rebuilding, while tenants must understand their rights and explore all available resources.

At Strategic Growth Real Estate, we’re committed to supporting both landlords and tenants

through these difficult times. Stay informed, stay prepared, and let’s rebuild together.

Source: SF Chronicle