Can I Move into My Rental Property in Los Angeles?

Yes, you can move into your rental property in Los Angeles—but only under specific rules. The Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) allows “owner move-in” evictions, but you must provide 60 days’ notice, file with the city, and pay relocation assistance. Here's what LA landlords need to know.

Owner Move-In Eviction Rules in LA

Under the Los Angeles Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), you can evict a tenant to move into the unit yourself—or to have your spouse, children, parents, or grandchildren move in.

But this is considered a no-fault eviction, which means strict protections apply.

Key Requirements:

• The unit must be under RSO (typically built before Oct 1, 1978).

• The owner must intend to live there for at least two consecutive years.

• A 60-day written notice is required.

• You must pay relocation assistance based on tenant circumstances.

🔗 LAHD – Renter Protections

Steps for a Legal Owner Move-In

✅ Step 1: Confirm RSO Coverage

Use ZIMAS to verify that your property is rent-controlled. If it’s exempt (e.g., newer construction or single-family home with no ADU), RSO may not apply—but the Just Cause Ordinance (JCO) probably does.

✅ Step 2: Serve a 60-Day Notice

Issue a written Notice to Terminate Tenancy citing “owner move-in” as the just cause. Submit this notice to LAHD within three business days of serving it.

✅ Step 3: File the Declaration

Submit the Landlord Declaration of Intent to Evict to the Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD), confirming you or a qualified family member will occupy the unit.

✅ Step 4: Pay Relocation Assistance

Depending on the tenant’s income, age, and length of tenancy, relocation fees can range from $8,500 to $21,200.

💡 Pro Tip: Elderly or disabled tenants—and those who’ve lived there over 10 years—often qualify for higher payments.

Important Considerations

❗You Must Actually Move In

If you don’t take up residence within 90 days—or you re-rent the unit within 2 years—you could face:

• Tenant lawsuits

• Penalties from the city

• Potential reversal of the eviction

❗You Must Stay for Two Years

LAHD can audit these move-ins. Failing to occupy the unit as stated can be considered tenant harassment or fraud.

Alternatives to Consider:

• Tenant Buyout: Offer cash for keys if you want more flexibility or a faster timeline.

• Wait It Out: If your tenant plans to leave soon, a buyout may not be necessary.

Real Example

One LA homeowner inherited a tenant paying under-market rent in a rent-controlled duplex. They planned to move into the unit but were unaware of the two-year occupancy rule and relocation costs. After consulting The Borges Real Estate Team, they opted for a legal buyout instead—saving money and avoiding risk.

Thinking about moving into your Los Angeles rental property? The Borges Real Estate Team can help you navigate owner move-ins, tenant protections, and all city compliance requirements. Let’s talk.