Welcome to SNS Law Group’s video on Santa Monica Ordinance 2776: Added Housing Status As A Protected Class. In this video, Bijan Shakibkoo, co-founder and managing partner of SNS Law Group, discusses the implications of the Santa Monica ordinance for landlords who own rental property in the city.
The ordinance has implemented a new protected class – adding housing status as a protected class. This means landlords are now prohibited from discriminating against tenants based on their housing status. This includes tenants who are suffering from homelessness, living in transitional or temporary housing, or if the tenant lacks a tenant residential history.
These changes are important for landlords to understand before renting out their property. Discriminating against tenants based on these factors is considered a violation of the anti-discrimination housing codes and may open the door to a lot of liability down the line.
If you’re a landlord in Santa Monica, these changes could significantly affect how you manage your property. If you have any questions about this ordinance or need legal advice, please feel free to give our office a call. We would love to help.
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Transcript:
Landlords who own rental property in the city of Santa Monica, under Ordinance 2776, here’s one important thing you need to know before renting your property to a tenant.
Hi, my name is Bijan Shakibkoo. I am a co-founder and managing partner of SNS Law Group. And if you enjoyed this video, please like and subscribe.
New Protected Class: Housing Status
The city of Santa Monica has implemented a new protected class. What is that class? That’s housing status. Landlords are prohibited from discriminating against tenants who are either suffering homelessness, who are living in a transitional or temporary housing, or if the tenant lacks a residential history. These are important things you need to know before renting out your property. These are considered discriminatory and it may open the door to a lot of liability down the line.
Contact SNS Law Group for Landlord-Tenant Law in Santa Monica
If you have more questions under this ordinance, please feel free to give our office a call. We would love to help.
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At SNS Law Group, we recognize how challenging it can be when a property is no longer safe or suitable to live in. Issues such as mold, pest infestations, lack of heat, broken plumbing, or other habitability concerns can quickly escalate into serious disputes. Our attorneys bring extensive experience in addressing Habitability Claims in Los Angeles, working to resolve conflicts efficiently and ensure that the responsibilities of all parties are upheld under California law.
Whether you are a tenant concerned about unsafe conditions, a landlord facing a habitability dispute, or a property owner seeking legal guidance, we are here to provide clear advice and strong representation. With a proven record in Real Estate Habitability cases and related litigation, SNS Law Group is committed to finding fair solutions, pursuing necessary repairs or compensation, and protecting your rights every step of the way.
Client Testimonials
I can’t say enough good things about SNS Law Group. After being involved in a car accident, I was overwhelmed—not just by the physical recovery, but by the thought of dealing with insurance, bills, and the legal process. Edrin, Bijan and Khushboo made navigating my personal injury claim incredibly easy from start to finish.
- Mariya Mazarati
Thank you Bijan , Edrin and staff .
Thank you for helping property owners like myself deal with complicated tenant situation and have a great successful results glad to work with this group very knowledgeable , easy to communicate , wonderful staff glad to have dedicated attorneys on my side .
- Busy Bee J.
I am very pleased with the legal assistance provided by Bijan & Edrin. When I first approached them, I was concerned about how to handle my legal issue. The were both clear and professional throughout the whole process, explaining everything in a way that was easy to understand.
- Jasmin Danialian
Bijan was very patient and helpful in answering my Landlord-Tenant questions. It was a relief getting all my questions answered to bring clarity and assurance that I am doing things legally. Thank you so much Bijan!
A unit is uninhabitable if it lacks basic health and safety features required by law, such as heat, hot water, working plumbing, weatherproofing, or is affected by issues like mold, pest infestations, or structural hazards.
No. California law protects tenants from retaliation. Your landlord cannot legally evict or harass you for reporting unsafe or unsanitary living conditions.
Landlords should respond quickly to repair requests, document all communications, and keep detailed records of inspections and maintenance. Proactive property upkeep is the best defense against costly tenant lawsuits.
Yes. If a landlord files for eviction due to nonpayment of rent, a tenant can raise habitability violations as a legal defense. For example, if essential repairs weren’t made, the tenant may argue that the unit was unlivable and rent was not legally owed. Landlords must ensure compliance with habitability standards before pursuing eviction.
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