Thursday, January 16, 2025

Altadena Family Displaced by Eaton Fire Faces Illegal Price Gouging

STAFF REPORT

Attorney General Rob Bonta confirmed that price gouging during the ongoing emergency in Los Angeles and Ventura counties is illegal, with violations carrying penalties of up to a year in jail and $10,000 in fines. [Photo: Pi.1415926535]

An Altadena family who were victims of the Eaton Fire now say they have been victimized again.

Warren Skidmore and his family were forced to leave their home when the fire ravaged their community.

Seeking temporary refuge, they found an Airbnb in nearby Pasadena, only to discover, they say, that the rent for their stay increased by more than 43% in the following week.

Many people are reporting illegal price gouging as they struggle to secure housing in the aftermath of the blaze.

“My kids are great kids, and they’ve grown up in that house. That was their place, and they’ve lost their place,” Skidmore told ABC News Channel 7. “They’ve lost their little havens they’ve made for themselves.”

California law prohibits businesses from increasing prices by more than 10% during a state of emergency, a rule aimed at protecting vulnerable consumers during times of crisis.

Attorney General Rob Bonta confirmed that price gouging during the ongoing emergency in Los Angeles and Ventura counties is illegal, with violations carrying penalties of up to a year in jail and $10,000 in fines.

“During the state of emergency, it is unlawful to raise prices beyond 10%. It is a crime, and we are committed to investigating and enforcing the law,” Bonta said in a statement.

In response to the fire, Airbnb has partnered with 211LA to offer free housing for up to seven days to displaced residents. Skidmore expressed relief that the law provides some protection, noting that he has reported instances of price gouging and accommodation scams, which have become increasingly common.

Real estate agents in the region are witnessing the housing shortage firsthand. Greg Krappman, a local agent, said the demand for housing has driven up prices, with some applicants offering to prepay for leases as a way to secure a place.

“We are seeing people bidding up the price, offering to prepay, oftentimes prepaying an entire year to lease in order to be competitive,” Krappman told the nation.

If you have been the victim of price gouging please contact the Pasadena City Attorney at (626) 744-4611.