Thread by @nithyavraman

Despite what some of our city leaders say, we do not currently have a comprehensive eviction ban in Los Angeles.

There are, however, new tools for renters to stay in their homes -- but only if you meet certain criteria. I’m going to break down how to use them in this thread.

Some advice from @LATenantsUnion:

“No matter what your situation is, DO NOT MOVE OUT. As a tenant, the biggest piece of leverage you have is that you are occupying your unit. The only person who can physically remove you is a sheriff. Do not self-evict.”

Here’s some very important information from @HCIDLA on what circumstances currently exempt tenants from eviction:

If you cannot pay rent, you are required to notify your landlord of your non-payment within 7 days of the rent due date. If you need help with that letter, @SAJE_ShiftPower put together this helpful tool: norent.org.

If you’ve been laid off, contact your employer asking for proof of reduced hours or closures-- and preserve all of that documentation

We’ve spoken to a housing attorney who advises NOT signing any additional agreement that your landlord provides.

Because of an order from the Mayor, if your unit is covered by LA’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance, your landlord cannot increase your rent during the emergency.

This Rent Freeze is a policy I've long advocated for, and when I'm elected, I promise you that I'll fight to extend it.

Despite these protections, landlords may choose to pursue an eviction-- either because they do not understand the new regulations or because they believe tenants don’t.

This article from @CurbedLA spells out what to do if your landlord tries to evict you:
la.curbed.com/2020/3/20/2118…

To file a complaint you can contact HCIDLA’s hotline [phone] or online at hcidla.lacity.org/File-a-Complai…

Navigating this complex legal process would be a lot easier if LA City Council finally moved on guaranteeing tenants Right To Counsel. They must act urgently to pass it now.

Right now you are unfortunately still required to repay missed rent within 12 months of the end of LA's emergency period.

This policy must change. Tenants can't afford new debt. We need rent forgiveness -- or we’ll see an explosion in evictions and homelessness a year from now.

To learn more, visit nithyaforthecity.com/rentandevictio…

If you have additional questions, you can contact us at: 323-300-4872 or e-mail us at [e-mail]