Permanent eviction for remodeling in LA county

[Mariam Diallo]

A friend of mine is being permanently evicted without just cause for a substantial remodel. The owner says he won't have the option to move back in afterward because it's against the law (???), and in either case, the new rent will be out of his budget. He lives in Alhambra, CA in Los Angeles County. It's a 1968 3-bedroom apartment in a small complex, he's 63 years old, and has lived in it for 15+ years. What is he entitled to? He plans on contacting an attorney but just want to get a rough idea. Thanks so much.

[Theresa Harris]

Have your friend talk to a lawyer or a tenancy group.  I don't know about California, but in some other tenant friendly areas, the current tenant has right of first refusal after a major reno and that may be at market value.  

You can look up some of the laws online.  Here is one site and another (appears to be for LA).  The best sites are government sites.  The landlord may also be required to pay your friend money (eg 1 month's rent).