In July 2025, the Los Angeles City Council approved a critical amendment to the Los Angeles Just Cause for Eviction Ordinance. The amendment eliminates a property owner’s right to terminate a Los Angeles tenant’s tenancy to perform a substantial remodel of the rental unit (Colloquially termed, “renovictions”). Los Angeles Municipal Code § 165.03(I)(2). Instead, the landlord or property manager must enter into a voluntary permanent or temporary relocation agreement with the Los Angeles tenant that provides for the Los Angeles’ tenants well-being while simultaneously allowing the substantial renovation work to occur. Los Angeles Municipal Code § 165.08. The City of Los Angeles will promulgate rules and regulations and likely provide guidance regarding the relocation agreement soon. Los Angeles tenants can expect these rules and regulations to relate to: (1) Minimum relocation assistance pertaining to temporary or permanent relocation agreements; (2) Minimum temporary relocation unit standards; (3) Moving expense reimbursement standards; (4) Notification to the City of Los Angeles requirements; (5) Potential rent waivers; and, (6) The continuation of the displaced Los Angeles’ tenant’s tenancy upon the completion of the substantial renovation work, if applicable. Id. These amendments to the Los Angeles Municipal Code took effect on August 4, 2025.
In Los Angeles, Substantial Remodel Is No Longer A Just Cause to Terminate A Los Angeles Tenant’s Tenancy
