Finding Housing After a Disaster & Avoiding Price-Gouging Landlords

When disaster strikes, finding a new place to live can feel overwhelming. The recent wildfires in Los Angeles and the hurricane in North Carolina have left many renters displaced, scrambling to secure safe and affordable housing. Unfortunately, some landlords take advantage of these crises by illegally inflating rents, making the search even more challenging. We’re here to help you navigate this process and protect yourself from price gouging.

Step 1: Understand Your Rights as a Renter

During a state of emergency, price gouging laws protect renters from excessive rent increases. In California, landlords cannot raise rent by more than 10% while emergency orders are in effect. In North Carolina, similar protections exist to help renters during disasters, such as hurricanes. If you see listings that seem unreasonably high, report them to your local housing authority or the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office.

Step 2: Search for Temporary & Long-Term Housing Options

If you’ve been displaced, there are several resources available to help you find housing:

• FEMA Assistance – If you qualify, FEMA offers short-term hotel stays, rental assistance, and financial aid. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov to apply.
• Local Nonprofits & Housing Organizations – Groups like the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA), Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD), and North Carolina housing agencies provide rental assistance and connect you with landlords offering fair prices.
• Affordable Housing Listings – Use websites like ApartmentRatings.com, Zillow, and Apartments.com to compare rental prices and find listings within your budget.
• Short-Term Rentals & Temporary Housing – Platforms like Airbnb and corporate housing providers may offer emergency relief programs with discounts for displaced renters.

Step 3: Identify & Avoid Price-Gouging Landlords

To protect yourself from unfair rental practices:

• Know the Law – In California and North Carolina, charging more than 10% above pre-emergency rent rates is illegal during a declared state of emergency.
• Compare Prices – Research rental prices in the area to ensure you’re not being overcharged.
• Get Everything in Writing – Before signing a lease, request a written breakdown of all fees (pet rent, parking, trash, etc.), rent, and security deposits.
• Report Violations – If you suspect price gouging, file a complaint with the California Department of Justice or LA Housing Department at (866) 275-7922. You can also file a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Justice, as well as, report to the Consumer Protection Division at (877) 566-7226.

Step 4: Consider Alternative Living Arrangements

If rental prices in your area remain high, consider:

• Moving Slightly Outside the City – Expanding your search to nearby cities can reveal more affordable options.
• Roommate Sharing – Team up with other displaced renters to split costs on a larger rental.
• Exploring Housing Assistance Programs – Programs like Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers can provide rental support for those in need.

Emergencies can turn housing searches into stressful experiences, but you don’t have to face them alone. By staying informed, utilizing assistance programs, and watching out for unfair pricing, you can secure a safe and affordable home after a disaster. If you’re currently looking for housing, visit ApartmentRatings to read real renter reviews and find communities that put residents first.