Thelma Smith, who has lived in her Ladera Heights residence for 30 years, will soon be evicted after receiving a notice from her landlord who issued it because his daughter will be moving into the place after graduating from law school.
Smith was given three months to evacuate but not having any other place to stay, she doesn't have any choice because it is legal for landowners to evict their tenants for the purpose of providing housing to their relatives.
Under Los Angeles’ Rent Stabilization Ordinance, a landlord can legally evict a tenant to accommodate a relative’s housing needs. But the city law indicates that if the landlord’s units are of comparable housing, the last person who moved in would be the first person forced to leave. That regulation is meant to protect low-paying tenants from being targeted.
In greater L.A. County, where a temporary rent stabilization policy for unincorporated areas went into effect in December, the law is weaker.
For now, Smith, who recently celebrated her birthday, is asking help from friends and family who would be able to accommodate her once the time comes for her to vacate her premises. She has until June 30.
(Image credit: Wynter Eddins/Go Fund Me)
Compared to what I've seen landlords do, this is pretty tame. I'm being serious, unfortunately.
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I'm waiting for karma to catch up to this landlord.
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