Jason Oppenheim, known for his role on Netflix’s “Selling Sunset,” has raised concerns about price gouging by landlords in Los Angeles in the wake of the devastating wildfires. In an interview with the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, Oppenheim, who co-manages the Oppenheim Group with his twin brother, highlighted the exploitative practices some landlords are engaging in during this crisis.
The fires in Los Angeles, which have been ongoing for nearly a week, have resulted in the loss of at least 24 lives, with dozens still reported missing. Additionally, thousands of structures, including homes, have been destroyed, leading to an area burned that surpasses the size of Paris.
Oppenheim shared a troubling anecdote about a client who expressed interest in renting a property initially listed at $13,000 per month. Despite the client offering $20,000 per month and six months’ rent in advance, the landlord sought to increase the rent to $23,000 per month, indicating a clear case of price gouging.
California has laws in place to prevent such exploitation, with restrictions on rental price increases of more than 10% following a declared emergency. Governor Gavin Newsom has taken further steps to curb price gouging by extending the ban until January 2026.
Oppenheim emphasized the importance of upholding these laws to prevent landlords from taking advantage of vulnerable situations. He stated, “We’re having landlords taking advantage of the situation,” underscoring the need for accountability and adherence to legal guidelines, particularly in the aftermath of a natural disaster.
The State of Emergency declared by Governor Newsom on January 7 triggered California’s anti-price gouging law, which prohibits excessive price hikes for housing and essential supplies for a specified period after an emergency declaration. Violations of these laws can result in imprisonment, fines, or both.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta echoed Oppenheim’s concerns, warning businesses and landlords against engaging in price gouging practices. Bonta emphasized the illegality of such actions, stating unequivocally, “It’s called price gouging. It is illegal. You cannot do it.”
Displaced residents in Los Angeles are facing challenges in securing alternative housing near their usual locations, driving up demand and, in some instances, resulting in illegal price increases. Reports indicate instances of significant price hikes, such as an 86% increase in the rental price of a home in Bel Air as observed on a Zillow listing.
As the fires continue to pose a threat, authorities caution that dry winds could exacerbate the situation, complicating firefighting efforts. Neighborhoods like Pacific Palisades, known for their luxury real estate, have been severely impacted, with notable figures like Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, and Milo Ventimiglia among those who have lost their homes to the fires.
The urgency of addressing price gouging and ensuring compliance with existing laws is paramount, particularly to safeguard vulnerable populations in times of crisis. Oppenheim’s call for accountability and transparency in the rental
