The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a motion to continue housing price gouging protections through March 29, 2026, amid nearly 1,900 ongoing investigations tied to the 2025 wildfires.
The motion, led by Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, extends safeguards for displaced wildfire survivors.
"Wildfire survivors remain displaced and in temporary housing one year after last year's devastating wildfires," Horvath said. "Fire survivors deserve to rebuild without facing unlawful, excessive increases on rent, building materials, and more related to our recovery efforts."
The Department of Consumer and Business Affairs is investigating 1,885 price gouging cases and has issued more than 2,000 cease-and-desist orders, securing $335,000 in restitution for impacted tenants. More than 260 cases have been referred to law enforcement for possible civil or criminal prosecution.
Investigations have also addressed unlawful price increases on essential goods, including air purifiers sold during the emergency. A department report demonstrated the need for continued safeguards, detailing ongoing complaints, active investigations and sustained rental pressures.
A recent survey confirms that a majority of survivors in Pacific Palisades and Altadena remain in temporary housing with continued concerns about long-term affordability.
Anyone who suspects price gouging can report it at dcba.lacounty.gov/pricegouging or call (800) 593-8222.
Edited by SMDP Staff