Larry Landlord rented an apartment to Tina and Tim Tenant. The rental agreement covers two occupants to live in the unit who are specifically identified as Tina and Tim Tenant. A few months later, Tina’s little sister Theresa returns from college and moves into the unit to “third wheel it” with Tina and Tim. Larry Landlord is upset that Theresa moved in without his consent and would like to raise the rent because of the extra occupant.
Q: Can Larry Landlord increase the rent for the additional occupant?
A: Yes, specifically under the Los Angeles Rent Stabilization Ordinance, a Landlord can increase the rent by 10% for each additional occupant who moved into the unit. The Landlord also has the option to chose to evict the tenants instead if there is an occupancy cap in the lease agreement. There are restrictions on when and how this increase can be done as well as when and how the eviction can be done so it is best to consult with an attorney prior to making any moves.
Contact us at 213-908-5188 for more information if you have concerns about additional occupants in your units. This does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please see our “Disclosure Page” for more information.
