If you’re a multi-family investor in Los Angeles or San Bernardino County, you’re facing a new wave of regulations that could delay evictions, increase tenant rights, and put your rental income at risk.
I sat down with Mike Brennan, a leading eviction attorney, to break down the biggest legal shifts affecting landlords in 2025.
Here’s what you need to know:
Key Legal Changes Impacting Landlords
✅ Right to Counsel (Unincorporated LA & Expanding Soon)
- As of January 1st, 2024, tenants in Unincorporated LA County now have a right to free legal representation during evictions
- Landlords must post a county-drafted form at their property to comply
- Expect this to expand to ALL of LA County by 2030
✅ The Surge in Tenant Rights Lawyers
- Massive increase in tenant law firms looking to delay evictions and tie up landlords in legal battles
- Many lawyers are inexperienced, causing delays and excessive court continuances
✅ Extended Eviction Timelines
- Tenant response time doubled from 5 to 10 days (which translates to 14-15 days in real-time)
- Courts are still backlogged, leading to months-long delays
✅ Restrictions on Unauthorized Occupants & Pets
- If a tenant allows unauthorized occupants or pets due to recent wildfires, landlords cannot evict them for 1 year
- More cities are moving toward limiting landlord power to remove extra occupants
✅ Rent Freezes & More Tenant-Friendly Laws
- One-year rent freeze in LA City under discussion
- New restrictions on security deposit deductions—you must provide extensive photo documentation before move-in & after move-out
How to Protect Yourself as a Landlord
These changes put more risk and liability on landlords than ever before.
Here’s how to stay ahead:
✔️ Strict compliance with ALL new rent control & eviction policies
✔️ Thorough tenant screening—avoid future problem tenants BEFORE they move in
✔️ Work with an experienced attorney to avoid costly mistakes
✔️ Stay informed on new regulations before they go into effect
📌 Don’t risk costly delays & legal traps—scroll up to watch my full interview with Mike Brennan now.
At The Apartment Dealer, we equip landlords with the insights and strategies needed to stay ahead—whether it’s navigating market shifts, optimizing rental income, or executing a profitable 1031 exchange. Our team specializes in multi-family investment sales and provides the tools you need to make informed decisions that protect and grow your portfolio. Watch the episode now, and reach out to explore how we can help you maximize your investment strategy.