South Pasadena Approves Moratorium on no-fault Lease Terminations

Updated 07/10/24

This week, the South Pasadena City Council unanimously passed a 45-day moratorium on no-fault evictions. The decision was made in light of residents’ claims that a few recent rental property owners had been deceitful in using “substantial remodel” as a justification to end tenancies.

South Pasadena, like many other cities in California, has implemented moratoriums on no-fault lease terminations to provide additional protections for tenants. These moratoriums are typically temporary measures put in place in response to specific situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to prevent displacement and ensure housing stability. Here’s an overview of what these moratoriums generally entail:

Definition of No-Fault Evictions

No-fault evictions occur when a landlord terminates a lease for reasons other than the tenant’s violation of the lease terms. Common reasons for no-fault evictions include:

• Owner Move-In: The landlord or their family member intends to move into the rental unit.
• Substantial Renovations: The landlord needs to make significant repairs or renovations that require the unit to be vacant.
• Withdrawal from Rental Market: The landlord plans to remove the property from the rental market entirely.
• Compliance with Government Orders: The property needs to be vacated to comply with health or safety regulations.

South Pasadena Moratorium Provisions

Moratoriums on no-fault lease terminations typically include the following provisions:

1. Temporary Suspension: The moratorium temporarily prohibits landlords from initiating no-fault evictions. This means that tenants cannot be evicted for reasons such as owner move-ins or substantial renovations during the moratorium period.
2. Rent Payment Requirements: While the moratorium might protect tenants from eviction, it usually does not relieve them of the obligation to pay rent. However, it might provide additional time for tenants to pay overdue rent.
3. Extended Notice Periods: In some cases, moratoriums may extend the required notice period for no-fault evictions, giving tenants more time to find alternative housing.
4. Applicability: These moratoriums often apply to residential tenants, including those in apartments and single-family homes, and sometimes extend to commercial tenants as well.

Specifics of South Pasadena’s Moratorium

The specific details of South Pasadena’s moratorium on no-fault lease terminations can vary depending on the city council’s decisions and the reasons for the moratorium. Typically, the measures are designed to:

• Prevent Displacement: Protect tenants from losing their homes during times of crisis, such as economic downturns or public health emergencies.
• Ensure Housing Stability: Maintain community stability by preventing sudden increases in homelessness and housing insecurity.
• Support Public Health: During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, moratoriums helped reduce the spread of the virus by allowing people to shelter in place.

Legal and Practical Considerations

• Enforcement: Tenants and landlords must comply with the terms of the moratorium. Violations can result in legal consequences.
• Expiration and Extensions: Moratoriums are usually set for a specific period but can be extended depending on ongoing needs and circumstances.
• Communication: Landlords should communicate clearly with tenants about their rights and responsibilities during the moratorium period.

For the most up-to-date and detailed information, tenants and landlords should consult the South Pasadena city website or contact local housing authorities. Fast Eviction Service can also provide guidance specific to individual situations.