Now is a great time to make upgrades and improve your property. It helps keep tenants safe, saves energy, cuts costs, and makes your property more valuable in the future. It’s a smart choice for everyone!
Your guide to understanding and implementing the new Heat Ordinance.
Non-compliance can result in inspections, fines, and enforcement actions by Public Health and RHHP. Early education and technical assistance will be provided, but failure to meet temperature requirements could lead to penalties starting in 2027.
Financial resources, rebates, and technical support are available through programs like Clean Power Alliance (CPA), local utility providers, and state programs such as CARE and FERA.
Starting January 1, 2027 (or upon fee approval), tenant complaints will be investigated by Rental Housing Habitability Program (RHHP) inspectors. The County will use an education-first approach initially, offering guidance on cooling strategies before enforcement actions.
Yes. If you cannot complete the required cooling upgrades immediately, you may request a two-year extension by submitting an application to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health or the Rental Housing Habitability Program (RHHP). Your request should explain the reasons for the delay and provide a timeline for completing the work. Extensions are granted based on the County’s review and approval process.
You may need to perform electrical or structural upgrades to safely install cooling systems. Technical assistance is available through Clean Power Alliance (CPA)’s Energy Team to help plan and access rebates for such improvements.
Costs for portable or window units cannot be passed through to tenants. Capital improvement costs for retrofits are subject to the County’s Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protections Ordinance (RSTPO), which caps rent increases and requires an application process through the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA).
Tenants may install portable fans or plug-in air conditioners after giving you written notice at least 5 days in advance. You cannot interfere or retaliate against tenants for exercising this right. The devices must be used safely and without structural alterations.
Cooling methods must meet local building and safety codes. This can include fans, insulation, shading, approved mechanical systems like air conditioning or heat pumps, and other approaches that safely maintain the temperature threshold without modifying the unit illegally.
You are encouraged to use passive cooling methods like improved insulation, shade screens, and window coverings first. Mechanical cooling (such as air conditioning or heat pumps) may be required if passive measures don’t keep temperatures at or below 82°F.
You must ensure all rental units in unincorporated LA County can maintain a maximum indoor temperature of 82°F in every habitable room using safe, code-compliant cooling methods. The ordinance was approved in late 2025, with enforcement beginning January 1, 2027, or upon approval of related fees, whichever is later.
