A cheap apartment in a problem building is never a good deal. Before you sign a lease, spend 30 minutes researching. It could save you from months of maintenance nightmares, pest infestations, or a negligent landlord.
Quick Building Research
Search any LA address to instantly see violations, building info, and quality scores—all in one place.
Search a BuildingWhat to Check
1. Code Violations (LAHD)
The Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) tracks code violations for rental properties. These violations indicate problems with the building and how responsive the landlord is.
What violations tell you:
- Many open violations = Red flag
Landlord isn't fixing problems
- Repeat violations = Pattern of neglect
Same issues keep coming back
- Quickly closed violations = Responsive landlord
Problems get fixed promptly
2. RSO Status
Check if the building is covered by LA's Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO). RSO buildings offer:
- Capped annual rent increases (typically 3-8%)
- Just Cause eviction protection
- Relocation assistance if evicted for no-fault reasons
3. Ownership Information
Know who owns the building:
- LLC vs. individual owner — LLCs are harder to hold accountable
- Owner's portfolio — Do they own many buildings? How are those rated?
- Property management company — Research their reputation
4. Building Age and Type
Older buildings in LA have different considerations:
- Pre-1978 buildings — May have lead paint (must be disclosed)
- Pre-1978 with 2+ units — Likely RSO covered
- Older buildings — May lack A/C, modern plumbing
- Soft-story buildings — Earthquake retrofit requirements
5. Google the Address and Landlord
A simple Google search can reveal:
- News articles about the building or landlord
- Lawsuits and legal issues
- Tenant complaints on forums
- Reviews on Yelp, Google, or apartment sites
🚩 Red Flags
Warning Signs
- Many open violations — Landlord not addressing problems
- Habitability violations — No heat, water, or pest infestations
- Ellis Act history — Building has evicted tenants before
- Many lawsuits — Frequent legal disputes
- High tenant turnover — Ask how long current tenants have stayed
- Landlord is evasive — Won't answer questions about building
During Your Tour
When you visit, look for signs of problems:
- Common areas — Are they clean and maintained?
- Halls and stairs — Good lighting, working locks?
- Exterior — Peeling paint, damaged facade?
- Trash areas — Clean and not overflowing?
- Other tenants — If possible, ask about their experience
Inside the Unit
- Test all faucets (water pressure, hot water)
- Check for signs of pests (droppings, traps)
- Look for water damage or mold
- Test all outlets and light switches
- Open all windows and doors (do they work?)
- Check cell signal throughout the apartment
Free Research Resources
Official Sources
- StreetSmart
Search any LA address for violations, building info, scores
- ZIMAS (zimas.lacity.org)
LA zoning info, RSO status, year built
- LA County Assessor
Property ownership information
- LAHD Housing Hotline (866) 557-7368
Confirm RSO status and check violation history