The California COVID-19 Rent Relief Program has issued letters to some landlords and tenants who previously received pandemic-related financial assistance, requesting the return of these funds.  

California Apartment Association staff met with the State Department of Housing and Community Development HCD, the Department that oversees the program, and learned that the demands arise from a federal audit identifying issues such as insufficient or invalid documentation and tenants who may not have been eligible for the program. 

While rental housing providers, particularly those who received payments directly from the program on behalf of tenants, are being instructed by the government to repay these funds, they have a right to appeal these demands. Given that landlords based their participation on the program’s approval dependent on tenant-provided information, owners can argue that repayment responsibility should fall on tenants who were deemed ineligible. 

It is crucial for landlords to promptly respond, as there is a 30-day period to initiate an appeal from the receipt of the letter. For those needing to inquire about the letters or to initiate an appeal, the process involves contacting the state through the designated appeal portal. Landlords can also reach out via email at FundingDisputes@ca-rentrelief.com or by phone at 833-430-2122, providing their case number. 

Landlords are encouraged to regularly check their mail to ensure they do not overlook any communication regarding this issue. As the situation is complex and time-sensitive, staying informed and responding swiftly is essential for those impacted.