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TENANT PROTECTIONS - In a collaborative step toward stronger consumer rights, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County (NLSLA) have reached a landmark settlement ending a policy that unintentionally required some tenants to pay their landlords’ past-due utility bills before opening new accounts.
The settlement follows a lawsuit filed on behalf of tenant Bryan James, who went months without water or power after LADWP was unable to restore service due to an unpaid balance left by his landlord. The case prompted both sides to work toward clearer procedures and greater awareness of tenants’ rights under California law.
“This settlement makes clear what the law has always required: tenants are not responsible for their landlords’ utility bills,” said Dehsong Matheu, NLSLA attorney. “Equally important, it ensures that LADWP continues to improve training, outreach, and communication so that no one is ever placed in this situation again.”
Mr. James described the experience as “dehumanizing,” adding, “Access to utilities is a basic human right. I’m grateful LADWP is making these reforms so others don’t go through what I did.”
Key Terms of the Settlement
Under the agreement, LADWP will take proactive steps to enhance fairness and transparency for customers:
- Policy Updates and Training: LADWP will revise internal manuals and train all customer service staff to ensure compliance with state law and best practices.
- Public Notice: For the next two years, the Department will prominently post information on its website about tenant rights and refund eligibility.
- Revised Disconnection Notices: All future notices will clearly explain that tenants can open utility accounts without paying a landlord’s debt.
- Refunds for Affected Tenants: LADWP will issue refunds to any tenants, dating back to May 5, 2021, who were required to pay a landlord’s delinquent balance.
A Step Forward in Accountability and Equity
The settlement represents an opportunity for LADWP to reaffirm its commitment to customer fairness while strengthening trust with Los Angeles renters. Advocates hope it will serve as a model for other utilities statewide to review and modernize their own policies.
Tenants who believe they were affected can contact Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County at 1-866-559-1012 for assistance.
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