Is My Property Under Rent Control in Los Angeles?


If you own a rental property in Los Angeles, it’s crucial to know whether it falls under the city’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO). This guide will help you quickly check if your property is rent-controlled — and explain what that means for your rights and responsibilities as a landlord.


What is Rent Control in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles’ Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), enacted in 1978, is designed to:


  • Prevent excessive rent hikes

  • Require just-cause evictions

  • Ensure landlords receive a fair return on investment


The RSO applies to most residential rental units built on or before October 1, 1978, including:


  • Apartments

  • Duplexes and triplexes

  • Condo units rented out

  • Mobile homes in parks


🔺 2025 Rent Increase Cap:

For July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026:


  • Rent may be increased up to 3%, plus 1% more if the landlord pays for gas and electricity.


🔺 Evictions Must Be for “Just Cause”:
Examples of valid just cause:


  • Non-payment of rent

  • Breach of lease terms

  • Owner move-in


How to Check if Your Property is Rent-Controlled (RSO)

To confirm if your property falls under the RSO:

✅ Use ZIMAS (Zoning Information Management System):


  1. Go to zimas.lacity.org

  2. Enter your address

  3. Click the Housing tab to view RSO status


✅ Text Message Option:
Text “RSO” to 1-855-880-7368 with the lowest street number of the property.


General Rule of Thumb:


  • Built before Oct 1, 1978? Likely under RSO

  • Replacement units built after July 15, 2007 (following demolition of RSO units) are also typically covered.


➡️ Learn more: What Is Covered Under the RSO


LA Rent Control vs. California’s AB 1482 Rent Cap

There are two major laws that may affect your property:

➡️ Learn more: AB 1482 Full Bill Text


What Properties Are Exempt from RSO?

Not all properties in LA are subject to rent control. Common exemptions include:


  • Single-family homes, unless part of a larger multi-unit parcel

  • Condos and townhomes

  • Owner-occupied properties with 4 or fewer units

  • New construction built after Oct 1, 1978

  • Luxury units above 1978 rent thresholds

  • Substantially rehabilitated buildings


Even if your property is exempt from RSO, it may still be subject to:


  • AB 1482 rent caps

  • Just Cause eviction rules (JCO)


Always double-check via ZIMAS or contact LAHD for confirmation.


➡️ Learn more: Rent Control Property Overview

Need help navigating rent control in Los Angeles? The Borges Real Estate Team specializes in guiding homeowners and investors through complex rental property decisions. Let’s connect.