I
n the aftermath of Los Angeles' devastating fires, City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto has taken a stand against Blueground US Inc., accusing the furnished rental giant of exploiting vulnerable residents through blatant price gouging. As the city teetered on the brink of disaster, landlords were prohibited from hiking rents more than 10% above pre-fire rates. Yet, according to Feldstein Soto's lawsuit, Blueground repeatedly flouted this rule, jacking up prices by as much as 30% in some cases.

    The company's modus operandi involves leasing units from property owners, furnishing them, and then renting them out to businesses and individuals seeking long-term housing for their employees. With a global presence, according to its website, Blueground US Inc. is the entity at the center of Feldstein Soto's lawsuit. "It's unconscionable that Blueground would prey on Angelenos in their darkest hour," Feldstein Soto declared. "Not only is it morally reprehensible, but it's also against the law – and it must stop immediately."

    This latest move by authorities comes as reports of price gouging continue to surface. The California attorney general's office has already filed multiple criminal cases against L.A.-area real estate agents, while companies like Zillow have taken down listings featuring rent hikes above the 10% threshold.