Understanding Rent Control in Los Angeles: A 2025 Guide for Property Owners

Rent control laws in Los Angeles are anything but uniform. Whether you’re renting out a condo in Santa Monica, a duplex in Culver City, or a single-family home in Burbank, understanding the differences can help you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes. Here’s what you need to know for 2025.

Rent Control Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Rent control rules vary not just by city but also by property type. California’s statewide rent control law (AB 1482) sets the baseline, capping annual rent increases for certain properties at 5% plus inflation. But local ordinances add layers of complexity.

How Rent Control Differs by Location

Los Angeles City (HCIDLA – RSO)

Properties built before October 1, 1978, with two or more units, fall under the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO). This limits rent increases (currently about 7% for 2025) and regulates eviction procedures. Single-family homes and condos are exempt unless covered by state law.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica has some of the strictest rent control laws in California. Buildings constructed before April 10, 1979, are subject to stringent rent increase limits, often much lower than statewide caps. Santa Monica also restricts eviction types and requires registration with the Rent Control Board.

Beverly Hills

Rent control applies to multi-family properties built before February 1, 1995. Beverly Hills sets its own annual allowable increases, which may differ from LA’s. Single-family homes are typically exempt unless covered by AB 1482.

Culver City

Culver City implemented rent control in 2020 for multi-family properties built before February 1, 1995. Annual rent increases are capped (about 3-5% plus CPI), and eviction protections apply. Single-family homes and condos are exempt unless covered by state law.

Burbank

Burbank has no local rent control. However, AB 1482 applies to multi-family properties (excluding those built in the past 15 years) and sets the statewide cap. Single-family homes are generally exempt unless owned by a corporate entity.

Key Differences by Property Type

• Single-Family Homes: Exempt from most local rent controls, but AB 1482 applies if owned by corporations or REITs, or if not considered “new construction” (older than 15 years).
• Condos: Similar to single-family homes; local rent control usually doesn’t apply, but AB 1482 can.
• Multi-Family Units (2+ Units): Typically covered by local ordinances if built before cutoff dates (varies by city).
• New Construction: Properties built within the last 15 years are exempt from AB 1482 and most local controls.

Bottom Line

Understanding rent control in Los Angeles means knowing not just the laws, but how they apply to your property’s location and type. Whether you’re managing a triplex in Culver City or a classic apartment building in Santa Monica, staying informed is key to avoiding compliance headaches.

We know it’s complicated. That’s why it’s essential to work with a property manager who understands the nuances of Los Angeles rent control. Fill out our quick form to get a customized proposal today and see how Keybox can make it simple.