Tenants who receive rental assistance — through Section 8, LACDA, HACA, or other subsidy programs — have all the same rights as market-rate tenants, plus some additional protections specific to subsidized tenancies.
Source of Income Discrimination
California law prohibits landlords from refusing to rent to tenants based on their source of income — including housing vouchers. A landlord who refuses to accept a Section 8 voucher is violating California Government Code § 12955. Tenants who experience source of income discrimination can file a complaint with the DFEH.
Subsidized tenants have additional lease protections. Section 8 and other HUD-assisted tenancies have federal protections layered on top of state law. Landlords cannot terminate Section 8 tenancies without good cause — a standard that mirrors California’s just cause requirements but is independently enforceable through the housing authority. Tenants who face eviction from subsidized housing have two enforcement tracks: state court and the housing authority.
The California Tenant Defense System gives renters the exact tools, templates, and step-by-step guidance to fight illegal evictions, recover deposits, and enforce habitability rights. Request your free evaluation here.
California Tenant Defense System 
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