Building Problems in LA? How the City's REAP Program Affects Tenants
What is REAP?
REAP (Rent Escrow Account Program) helps protect tenants living in unsafe rental homes. When landlords fail to fix serious health or safety problems, tenants pay reduced rent to a city account instead of to the landlord. This happens when landlords ignore repair orders, forcing tenants to live in dangerous conditions. SELATAG helps people in REAP buildings protect their rights and improve their quality of life.
Basically REAP (Rent Escrow Account Program) helps renters living in unsafe homes. When landlords don't fix serious problems:
Tenants pay less rent
Rent money goes to a city account instead of the landlord
This happens when living conditions are dangerous and landlords ignore repair orders
What are some examples?
Example 1: An apartment building has ongoing problems with leaky roofs, broken heaters in winter, and unsafe hallways. Many tenants have complained, and city inspectors found serious issues, but the landlord hasn't made repairs. The city puts the building into the REAP program.
Example 2: Residents of the Sunrise Apartments have been dealing with elevators that break down weekly, leaving elderly tenants stranded on upper floors. Despite numerous complaints to management and city inspectors documenting the hazard, repairs are always temporary. The city finally placed the building in REAP.
Example 3: At the Palm Gardens complex, tenants faced regular sewage backups in their bathtubs and sinks. The landlord would send a handyman who would clear the line, but never fixed the root problem. After six months of this cycle and multiple health code violations, the city put the building into REAP.
Example 4: Tenants at Westview Apartments have dealt with a faulty electrical system for years. Lights flicker, outlets spark, and circuit breakers trip when using basic appliances. After a small electrical fire in one unit and countless repair requests, the city's housing department stepped in and placed the building in REAP.
Example 5: The roof at Mountain View Apartments has leaked for three rainy seasons. Multiple units have water damage, mold, and ceiling cave-ins. The landlord only patches damaged areas instead of replacing the roof. After tenants organized and reported conditions to code enforcement, the building was placed in REAP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my building in REAP?
What makes your REAP case strong?
How long does a REAP case usually last?
What kinds of payouts can tenants expect?