LA Officials Warn of Price Gouging as Fire Displaces Families Seeking Housing

Los Angeles officials are alerting the public about potential scams targeting those displaced by recent wildfires

LA Officials Warn of Price Gouging as Fire Displaces Families Seeking Housing
LA Officials Warn of Price Gouging as Fire Displaces Families Seeking Housing

Los Angeles: Authorities are sounding the alarm about scams and price hikes as many families look for new places to stay after the wildfires. These fires have wrecked neighborhoods and forced evacuations.

During a press conference, Sheriff Robert Luna emphasized that anyone trying to exploit victims, whether through burglary or scams, will face serious consequences. He plans to team up with the district attorney and federal prosecutors to tackle this issue head-on.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta also spoke out, warning that price gouging and looting are illegal. He mentioned that businesses and landlords are raising prices unfairly, which is against the law. Prices should only increase by 10% or less from what they were before the fires.

Bonta pointed out that some landlords use algorithms to set prices based on demand, but if those prices exceed the legal limit, they’re breaking the law. Ignorance won’t be accepted as an excuse.

Reports are coming in about landlords significantly raising rents as demand skyrockets. Governor Gavin Newsom has already declared a state of emergency and implemented price-gouging laws that will last until January 2026 in Los Angeles County.

However, some listings have shown outrageous price increases. For instance, a property in Bel Air was listed for nearly double its previous price. Another in Encino saw a jump from $9,000 to $11,500 before being adjusted back down.

Anya Lawler from the California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation noted that while some landlords might not know the law, others are likely trying to take advantage of the situation.

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