About Housing Inspections
A home inspection is an examination of the condition of a person's home. If someone's home is in poor condition, it can negatively impact a person's health and result in chronic disease and injury and poor mental health. It is important for homeowners and property owners to maintain houses and apartment buildings to ensure a healthy and safe living space.
The District Inspection Branch (DIB) of the Environmental Health Division ensures that residential housing within Los Angeles County is safe, sanitary, and fit for human habitation. DSE conducts routine and complaint inspections of approximately 60,000 apartment buildings with 5 units or more units, and approximately 12,000 swimming pools and spas associated with these buildings. DSE also responds to complaints concerning homes or apartment buildings of 4 units or less.
The Environmental Health Division has enforcement authority for all unincorporated areas of the county and in all cities that have adopted the County Health Code. The cities of Glendale and Torrance have not adopted the housing standards under the County Health Code, and as such the County does not have enforcement authority over housing issues in those cities. The cities of Long Beach, Pasadena and Vernon are not under County authority, as they have their own health departments.
During Inspection
Health Inspector will:
- Enforce the California Health and Safety Code, Los Angeles County Code, Title 11, and California Code of Regulation, Title 25
- Inspect apartments for health code violations such as vermin (i.e. cockroaches, rodents), and lack of maintenance (i.e. electrical, plumbing, structural)
- Investigate citizens' complaints regarding general sanitation and nuisance problems
- Make referrals to other agencies such as Building and Safety, Vector Control District, Fire Department, and Zoning
Conditions addressed include, but are not limited to:
- Green pools / Mosquito breeding at private residences
- Sewage discharge
- Insect or Rodent infestations
- Damaged walls, floors, ceiling, roof
- Lack of hot/cold water
- Clogged, leaking or inoperable plumbing fixtures
- Lack of maintenance (heating, lighting, electrical, ventilation, swimming pools)
- Lead and Mold Hazards
- Unsanitary conditions (trash accumulation, animal droppings)
Housing Inspection Results Information (Results of recent inspections of apartment buildings with 5 or more units)
Air Quality
- California Department of Public Health Indoor Air Quality
- Justice in the Air , Outdoor Air Quality Environmental Justice Study
For more information, please visit our Indoor Air Pollution page below.
Mold
For more information, please visit our Mold page below.
Lead
For more information, please visit our Lead page below.
Tenant Rights
Report a Problem
If you have questions or concerns, or to report a problem, contact the Environmental Health Call Center at (888) 700-9995 or File a Complaint Online.