The Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) in Los Angeles protects tenants in rent-controlled units by placing limits on rent increases and providing eviction protections. One common question that arises is whether modifying a rental lease alters the RSO in any way.
Answer:
No, modifying a rental lease does not alter the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) in Los Angeles. The RSO regulations still apply to tenants in rent-controlled units regardless of any modifications made to their lease agreement.
1. Can a landlord increase rent above the allowed limits by modifying the lease?
No, the RSO limits rent increases for tenants in rent-controlled units, regardless of any modifications made to the lease agreement.
2. Does a lease modification waive a tenant’s eviction protections under the RSO?
No, tenants in rent-controlled units are still protected from unjust evictions under the RSO, even if there have been modifications to the lease agreement.
3. Is a landlord required to provide notice to tenants before modifying a lease?
Yes, landlords are typically required to provide written notice to tenants before making any modifications to the lease agreement, as required by California law.
4. Can a tenant refuse to sign a modified lease agreement?
Yes, tenants have the right to refuse to sign a modified lease agreement. However, landlords may choose to pursue other legal options in such cases.
5. Are there any exceptions to the RSO regulations for modified lease agreements?
No, the RSO regulations apply to all tenants in rent-controlled units, regardless of any modifications made to their lease agreements.
6. Can a landlord make changes to a lease agreement without the tenant’s consent?
In most cases, landlords cannot make changes to a lease agreement without the tenant’s consent. However, there may be specific circumstances where modifications are allowed.
7. Are tenants entitled to a copy of the modified lease agreement?
Yes, landlords are typically required to provide tenants with a copy of the modified lease agreement after any changes have been made.
8. Can a tenant challenge modifications made to a lease agreement under the RSO?
Yes, tenants have the right to challenge modifications made to a lease agreement under the RSO if they believe their rights have been violated.
9. Does modifying a lease agreement affect a tenant’s security deposit under the RSO?
No, modifying a lease agreement does not typically affect a tenant’s security deposit rights under the RSO.
10. Can a modified lease agreement override the RSO regulations?
No, RSO regulations take precedence over any modifications made to a lease agreement in rent-controlled units in Los Angeles.
11. Are there specific guidelines for modifying a lease agreement under the RSO?
While there are no specific guidelines for modifying a lease agreement under the RSO, landlords must adhere to California landlord-tenant laws.
12. Can a tenant seek legal advice if they have concerns about a modified lease agreement?
Yes, tenants who have concerns about a modified lease agreement can seek legal advice to understand their rights and options under the RSO and California landlord-tenant laws.