Eviction Inquiries Surge in Pasadena as New Rent Control Program Takes Shape

Eviction-related inquiries to Pasadena’s Rent Stabilization Department surged in September, with both tenants and landlords seeking guidance under the City’s new rent control regulations. Tenant eviction inquiries rose to 28 cases while landlord inquiries jumped from 3 to 22, Department officials reported at Wednesday’s Rental Housing Board meeting.

The dramatic uptick in eviction-related cases comes as the City works to implement tenant protections passed by voters last year. Department Director Helen Morales noted the timing could be seasonal.

“Usually we see that and then we see December them ticking down and not picking up until February or so,” Morales told the Board. “That could be what we’re seeing here.”

The rise in eviction inquiries coincides with a notable decrease in rent increase questions, which fell from 83 in August to 44 in September. Meanwhile, relocation assistance inquiries from tenants dropped from 21 to 16 cases.

During public comment, residents described mounting housing challenges. John Weyermuller, a teacher at St. Philip the Apostle School, detailed deteriorating conditions under new ownership, including unrepaired leaks and removal of patio fencing.

Joe Castel, a 30-year resident of his townhouse, testified about facing a potential 35% rent increase.

“If I am unable to find a place in Los Angeles County, I will have to more than likely leave California altogether and relocate to the Midwest where the rent is cheaper,” Castel told the Board.

The Department has expanded its services, launching new digital systems including an online complaint portal, an eviction notice tracking system, and an improved phone system. A housing counselor is now available during Board meetings to assist both landlords and tenants with immediate concerns.

“That would be really powerful information to be able to show each Councilmember not just the makeup of their District with rental housing, but if we’re starting to see trends of eviction or anything like that, another communicative and educational tool perhaps for our Councilmembers as well,” said Board Member Allison Henry.

The Department has registered 755 properties with completed registrations and another 239 properties registered but awaiting payment. However, about three-quarters of properties covered by the ordinance have yet to complete registration ahead of the December 22 deadline. Additionally, approximately 6,300 single-family dwellings that did not register will be receiving notices to clarify their rental status.

“My big focus with our staff was to register the mom and pops because those are the most difficult to register,” Morales said, noting that larger property owners will soon have access to a streamlined registration system.

The Department is intensifying outreach efforts, including 20 transit posters, digital billboard advertising on Colorado Boulevard, and utility bill inserts. Their online advertising campaign has already generated 3,537 clickthroughs and 183,000 impressions. An open house is scheduled for December 10 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Department’s offices at 199 South Los Robles Avenue.

The Board will meet once more in November and once in December, with the December 19 and January 2 meetings canceled for the winter holidays.