Rent Refunds Due to Renters Affected by Garden Grove Chemical Emergency Evacuation Order

Housing providers whose renters were subject to the May 21-26, 2026 mandatory evacuation order during the chemical emergency in Garden Grove are reminded that state law requires that prorated rent refunds or credits must automatically be issued for the days their residents were unable to inhabit their homes.

Under SB 610 (California Civil Code Section 1941.9), renters are exempt from paying rent for the days they were legally prohibited from occupying their homes due to a mandatory evacuation order issued as part of a state or federally declared state of emergency.

Renters who already paid rent for a period covered by an evacuation order are automatically entitled to either:

• Automatic Refund: Prepaid rent (prorated for the number of days evacuated) must be refunded to tenants within 10 calendar days following the end of the evacuation order with no request required.
• Rent Deduction:  For rents not refunded within 10 calendar days, a deduction from the next month's rent (prorated for the number of days evacuated) is to be made with no request required.

Renters insurance policies may cover additional living expenses which can reimburse renters for costs such as hotel stays and meals. Housing providers should contact their insurance broker to discuss potential claims or coverage for impacts on their business.

Meanwhile, the City of Garden Grove is seeking input from businesses affected by the chemical emergency and evacuation orders. The can complete an online survey to help the city assess the operational and financial impacts on local businesses and help the City identify recovery needs, coordinate support services, and evaluate potential assistance resources. If you wish to participate in the online survey, click here.

For more information, contact AAOC at (714) 245-9500.