West LA HOA Update: Wildfire Preparedness, Price Caps & Seasonal Reminders for 2025

If you're part of a West LA homeowners association (HOA)—whether in Santa Monica, Westchester, or surrounding neighborhoods—here’s what your board should keep in mind this season. With early wildfires, legal changes, and rising vendor costs, staying ahead of the curve is more important than ever.

🔥 Wildfire Season: Are You Prepared?Even if your HOA isn’t in a high-risk fire zone, wind and smoke can still impact your community. HOAs are expected to show proactive risk management, especially in multi-unit or hillside developments.

• Clear Common Areas: Schedule brush clearance, remove dead vegetation, and confirm defensible space compliance (100 feet is the general rule).
  
• Emergency Communication Plan: Boards should have updated contact info for all homeowners and a plan to alert residents in emergencies.
  
• Vendor Coordination: Confirm landscaping and maintenance vendors are fire-aware and insured for wildfire-related liabilities.
  

🚫 Price Gouging Laws Impact HOA Rentals & ResalesCalifornia’s emergency declarations due to wildfires activate price gouging laws, which may apply to HOA-controlled rentals or resale situations.

• Rental Caps Apply: If your HOA leases units directly or controls lease terms (like with co-ops or developer-held units), you must comply with rent increase limits—generally capped at 10%.
  
• Short-Term Rentals May Be Affected: If your community allows furnished short-term leases, check that pricing aligns with emergency pricing rules.
  

🛠️ Seasonal Reminders for Boards

• Budget for Increased Costs: Insurance premiums, landscaping, and maintenance fees have risen—start budget forecasting early.
  
• Review CC&Rs & Enforcement: Ensure policies are up to date, especially regarding safety rules, unit access, and emergency powers.
  
• Communicate Clearly: Frequent, clear updates to owners build trust—especially around fire safety, dues, and vendor work.
  

👋 Need Help Managing Your West LA HOA?Keybox Properties offers professional HOA management in West LA, focused on communication, compliance, and proactive risk management. We handle:
✅ Board & owner communication
✅ Vendor coordination & budgeting
✅ Legal compliance & emergency prep