What LA Property Owner Need to Know About the Revised Tenant Anti-Harassment Ordinance

Navigating New Rental Rules with Confidence

Property owners in Los Angeles are entering a new era of rental regulations as the City enhances its Tenant Anti-Harassment Ordinance (TAHO). These changes prioritize renter protections while defining clearer boundaries for landlords. To remain compliant and foster strong tenant relationships, understanding these updates is essential.

What is the Tenant Anti-Harassment Ordinance?

TAHO is designed to protect renters from harmful practices by landlords, such as intimidation, retaliation, and misrepresentation. With the 2024 revisions, the ordinance strengthens tenant rights and imposes stricter obligations on property owners.

Quick Takeaways:

• Prohibits Harassment: Specifically targets actions that aim to displace tenants.
• Protects Tenant Rights: Safeguards organizing efforts and third-party rent payments.
• Expands Harassment Definitions: Includes delayed repairs and privacy violations.
  
  

2024 TAHO Updates: What Landlords Must Know

Stay proactive with these critical updates to TAHO:

1. New Harassment Categories:
2. Retaliation for tenant organizing activities.
3. Intrusive behavior like improper entry or privacy violations.
4. Delays in addressing health- or safety-related repairs.
5. Increased Tenant Recourse:
6. Tenants may counter wrongful eviction claims using TAHO.
7. Courts can award triple damages and impose fines up to $10,000 per violation.
8. Simplified Enforcement:
9. Streamlined complaint filing for tenants.
10. Incentives for private attorneys to take on tenant harassment cases.
    
    

Compliance Checklist for Property Owners

Understanding your responsibilities is key to avoiding penalties and fostering trust with tenants.

1. Document Everything:
   Keep detailed records of maintenance, tenant communications, and compliance efforts.
2. Train Your Team:
   Ensure property managers and staff are educated on lawful practices and tenant relations.
3. Register with LAHD:
   Pay the $38.75 annual registration fee per unit and comply with all LAHD requirements.
4. Avoid Prohibited Practices:
   Prevent actions like delaying repairs or misrepresenting eviction notices.
   
   

Turn Compliance Into Opportunity

The revised TAHO may seem challenging, but it offers a clear framework to improve landlord-tenant relationships. Compliance not only protects your investments but also enhances your reputation as a responsible landlord.

Proactively adopting best practices positions you as a leader in providing fair and transparent housing. Beyond avoiding penalties, these changes can help you build tenant trust, reduce turnover, and ensure long-term rental income stability.

FAQs on TAHO Compliance

Q: What qualifies as harassment under TAHO?
A: Harassment now includes actions like retaliating against tenant organizing, invading privacy, and delaying critical repairs.

Q: What are the fines for non-compliance?
A: Penalties can reach $10,000 per incident, with additional damages and legal fees possible.

Q: How can I ensure my team complies?
A: Use property management training to align your team with TAHO requirements and effective tenant communication strategies.

Partner with Coastline Equity

Compliance with TAHO doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Coastline Equity, we specialize in innovative property management solutions tailored to your needs. Protect your investments and promote community well-being with our expert support.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate TAHO and beyond.