Moving out on El Molino in Pasadena (File Photo – Emmanuel Kraultez).
The Pasadena Rent Stabilization Department announced a new partnership with the Interwest Consulting Group aimed at enhancing relocation services for tenants affected by no-fault evictions and significant rent increases. The collaboration promises to provide residents with expert guidance and personalized support, helping ensure a smoother transition to stable housing, while also assisting landlords in complying with relocation service requirements.
By News Desk
Interwest Consulting Group, a California-based firm with over 22 years of experience in tenant relocation, will bring its deep expertise to the city’s efforts. The firm has already processed thousands of determinations related to no-fault evictions and recently completed over 650 cases under SB 8—California’s state law providing additional protections for tenants facing qualifying evictions or rent hikes. With a team that boasts an average of 13 years in tenant support, Interwest is well-positioned to offer the professional assistance needed to address Pasadena’s growing housing challenges.
“Our goal is to ensure tenants facing displacement receive the necessary support to find safe, stable housing,” said Helen Morales, Director of the Rent Stabilization Department. “By partnering with Interwest, we’re enhancing Pasadena’s commitment to tenant protections and providing a direct line of assistance for those who need it most.”
Expanding Access to Relocation Assistance
Relocation services will be available for tenants displaced by various circumstances, including:
- Necessary and substantial repairs to rental units
- Evictions for owner or qualified relative move-ins
- Withdrawal of units from the rental market under the Ellis Act
- Evictions based on government orders, such as red-tagging or demolition orders
- Rent increases exceeding 5% plus the Annual General Adjustment (AGA) within any twelve-month period
Interwest will offer personalized housing referrals based on location preferences, budget, and accessibility needs. In addition, tenants will be connected to resources such as legal aid, the Housing Rights Center, and other relevant agencies for specialized assistance.
Financial Transparency & Fees
As part of the initiative, the City of Pasadena is committed to financial transparency regarding relocation costs. Landlords will be required to cover the relocation service fees, which are outlined in three categories:
Special Circumstances Household:
Tenants who are 60 or older, disabled, terminally ill, handicapped, or have minor children. These households receive enhanced support due to their increased vulnerability.
- Fee: $941 per case
Eligible Tenants:
Tenants who qualify based on eviction reasons but do not meet the criteria above.
- Fee: $585 per case
Right of First Refusal:
Grants displaced tenants the first opportunity to return to their original unit after repairs or renovations are completed.
- Fee: $300 per case
These fees reflect the anticipated costs based on current referrals, but actual amounts may vary depending on specific circumstances.
A Stronger Commitment to Tenant Protection
Project Managers Mina Villalobos and Ashleigh Gartner will lead the initiative, bringing over 25 years of combined experience in residential relocation and project management. The Interwest team will work directly with Pasadena residents to ensure the highest standards of service are upheld throughout the process.
The partnership, which officially launched in March 2025, will allow eligible tenants to access these services through referrals from housing counselors. Landlords will also receive assistance to ensure they are fully compliant with Pasadena’s tenant-protection regulations.
“We look forward to having Interwest Consulting on board as we navigate these services and work towards our mission of fostering a thriving rental housing community in Pasadena,” said Morales.
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