The Los Angeles Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) covers approximately 650,000 rental units in the city. Buildings with two or more units built before October 1, 1978 are generally covered. The RSO limits annual rent increases and provides just cause eviction protections.
The LA Rent Stabilization Ordinance (LAMC Chapter XV) limits how much landlords can raise rent each year on covered units. The annual allowable increase is set by the LA Housing Department (LAHD) and is typically tied to the Consumer Price Index, generally ranging from 3% to 8%. Your landlord must register the unit with LAHD and pay an annual registration fee. Unregistered units are still covered by the RSO if they meet the eligibility criteria.
You can look up your address on the LAHD ZIMAS database or call LAHD directly at (866) 557-7368 to confirm whether your unit is covered. Key indicators include: the building has two or more units, was built before October 1, 1978, and is located within LA city limits. Certain properties are exempt, including single-family homes, condominiums, and newer construction.
Landlords of RSO units can only raise rent once per year by the amount set by LAHD. Additional increases may be allowed for capital improvements, rehabilitation work, or increased utility pass-throughs, but these must be approved through a formal LAHD process. Tenants have the right to contest any increase they believe exceeds the allowable amount by filing a complaint with LAHD.
RSO tenants also benefit from just cause eviction protections, meaning your landlord must have a legally recognized reason to evict you. RSO tenants are entitled to relocation assistance in no-fault evictions. Additionally, landlords cannot reduce housing services (such as parking, laundry, or storage) without a corresponding rent reduction approved by LAHD.
3 questions answered
Look up your address on ZIMAS (zimas.lacity.org) or contact LAHD at (866) 557-7368. Generally, buildings built before October 1, 1978 with 2+ units are covered by the RSO.
RSO rent increases are set annually by LAHD — typically 3–8% depending on CPI. Landlords can only increase rent once per 12-month period and must give 30 days written notice.
Yes, but only under limited circumstances and with LAHD approval. Landlords can apply for a Capital Improvement pass-through or a Utility Maintenance Expense pass-through, but these require documentation and approval.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, contact a qualified attorney or one of the free legal services listed above.