LAHD
The Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) is responsible for a wide range of activities aimed at preserving, protecting, and producing safe and affordable housing for all residents of Los Angeles. Here are some key functions and services provided by LAHD:
1. Affordable Housing Development
- Production of Affordable Units: LAHD works to develop new affordable housing units through new construction or substantial rehabilitation of existing buildings. In the fiscal year 2023-2024, LAHD financed 2,116 affordable units and had 9,817 affordable units in the pipeline.
- Restoration of Units: The department also focuses on restoring existing units to safe living conditions through programs like the Rental Assistance Program.
2. Tenant and Landlord Services
- Rent Stabilization: LAHD enforces the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), which regulates rent increases and eviction practices for rental units in the city. For example, the annual allowable rent increase for rent-stabilized units is 4% from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.
- Complaint Handling: LAHD provides a platform for tenants to file complaints related to rent increases, evictions, and living conditions. This includes violations of the RSO and unsafe or unhealthy living conditions.
3. Homelessness Prevention and Support
- Emergency Rental Assistance: LAHD offers programs to provide rental assistance to households at risk of homelessness.
- Eviction Defense: The department supports eviction defense programs to help tenants facing eviction.
4. Regulatory Compliance and Code Enforcement
- Code Violations: LAHD inspectors respond to code violation complaints and conduct scheduled inspections for the city’s rental units.
- Accessibility Compliance: The department ensures that housing developments comply with accessibility standards for people with disabilities.
5. Homeownership Programs
- First-Time Homebuyers: LAHD offers programs like the Low-Income Purchase Assistance (LIPA) and Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) to help first-time homebuyers.
- Existing Homeowners: The department also provides resources and support for existing homeowners, including mortgage relief programs.
6. Online Services
- Online Applications: LAHD provides online services for various activities, including paying bills, filing complaints, and scheduling appointments.
- Accessible Housing Registry: LAHD maintains an online registry for affordable and accessible housing, allowing residents to search for suitable housing options.
7. Grievance Handling
- Accessibility Grievances: LAHD accepts and resolves grievances related to discrimination based on disability and lack of accessibility in housing developments.
8. Support for Rental Property Owners
- Regulatory Compliance: LAHD offers resources and guidance for rental property owners to ensure compliance with city ordinances and state laws.
- Financial Assistance: The department provides programs to help property owners recover costs from capital improvements, renovations, and seismic retrofits.
In summary, the Los Angeles Housing Department plays a crucial role in ensuring that all residents have access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing through a combination of development, regulatory enforcement, and support services.