Tenant & Landlord Rights After a Disaster

After the Eaton Fire, both tenants and landlords face significant challenges. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you navigate the recovery process. Below is a comprehensive Q&A to tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and available resources.

Do I Need to Pay Rent?

If your unit is completely destroyed: NO. Your lease is terminated, and you do not have to continue paying rent. The landlord must refund any unused rent and return your security deposit.

If your unit is “retagged” (declared temporarily unsafe by a city inspector): NO. You do not need to pay rent while the unit is uninhabitable. Once the inspector declares it safe, you may return and must resume rent payments.

If your unit is damaged but still livable: YES. Rent must still be paid. If you choose to move out, you must provide a 30-day notice and pay rent for those 30 days.

Where Can I Get Additional Help?

  • Call: 800-433-6251

  • Apply for Assistance Online: nlsla.org

  • Visit: Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles (NLSLA) Disaster Recovery Center at 540 Woodbury, Altadena, CA

  • Attend Free Tenant Rights Workshops:

    • Third Tuesday of the month (English)

    • Fourth Tuesday of the month (Spanish)

Am I Entitled to Relocation Assistance?

Maybe. If a local enforcement agency provides relocation benefits to tenants, you may be eligible.

Your landlord is not obligated under state law to provide relocation benefits due to a natural disaster.

If you have renters insurance, it may cover some relocation costs.

I’ve Been Served with an Eviction Notice—What Do I Do?

If you receive an eviction notice, seek legal assistance immediately.

  • Free Legal Aid Resources:

    • Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles (NLSLA)

    • Los Angeles County Superior Court Self-Help Center (Pasadena)

      • Address: 300 East Walnut Street, 3rd Floor, Room 300, Pasadena, CA 91101

      • Website: selfhelp.lacourt.org

Can I Get Reimbursement for Destroyed Property?

A landlord is only responsible for destroyed property if their negligence caused the loss.

Renters insurance may cover some of your property losses.

What Are My Obligations If My Rental Property Is Damaged?

Habitability: If the unit is unsafe, you cannot collect rent until repairs are completed.

Security Deposits: Must be returned if the unit is uninhabitable.

Repairs & Insurance: Work with insurance providers and local agencies to restore properties.

Legal Compliance: Follow local, state, and federal guidelines for disaster recovery and tenant rights.