LA landlords accused of exploiting wildfire crisis with illegal rent hikes

Amid the chaos of the Los Angeles wildfires, property mogul and Selling Sunset star Jason Oppenheim has brought attention to an alarming trend of landlords illegally hiking rental prices. Oppenheim, head of the luxury real estate brokerage featured on the popular Netflix show, revealed that one client was asked to pay thousands above the original asking price, despite California’s strict anti-“price gouging” laws.

In his appearance on BBC One’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Oppenheim recounted a case where his client offered $20,000 a month, plus six months’ rent upfront, for a property originally priced at $13,000 per month. The landlord, however, demanded $23,000. “There are price gouging laws in California, they’re just being ignored right now, and this isn’t the time to be taking advantage of situations,” he said, underscoring the emotional toll the disaster has taken on everyone.

This surge in illegal rent hikes comes as thousands of LA residents are displaced, grappling with soaring rental prices and hotel fees. California Attorney General Rob Bonta reiterated the legal consequences for such actions, said, “You cannot do it. It is a crime punishable by up to a year in jail and fines.” His warning followed numerous reports of landlords exploiting the crisis.

Brian, a 69-year-old retiree who lost his long-term rent-controlled home in Pacific Palisades, voiced his concerns about finding new housing on a fixed pension. “I’m back on the market with tens of thousands of people. That doesn’t bode well,” he lamented, highlighting the broader struggle for affordable housing in LA, where the median rent now stands at $2,800.

Authorities have also sounded the alarm over rising criminal activity. LA County Sheriff Robert Luna and Police Chief Jim McDonnell issued stark warnings against looting, scams, and other exploitative behaviors. McDonnell emphasized the need for caution when donating, urging residents to verify charities through platforms like Charity Navigator.

Despite the challenges, there has been a significant outpouring of support. LA Mayor Karen Bass announced that over 13,000 people have contributed more than $6 million to the California Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund.

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