Landlords in the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles County, take notice: An ordinance aimed at keeping rental units livable just got a thumbs-up from local lawmakers, and it could mean more red tape for property owners but a breath of fresh air for tenants. Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn cast her vote in favor of a proposed ordinance that promises to bring some much-needed scrutiny to rental housing in the county's unincorporated areas.

"Renters are paying for safe, healthy places to live and we need to ensure they are getting what they paid for," Hahn was quoted saying in a statement obtained by Los Angeles County’s announcement. According to the county's plan, this ordinance isn't just a one-off check. Inspectors from the Public Health Department will knock on doors at least once every four years to ensure everything is up to code.

It's not all surprise visits and red tags, though. Tenants who believe their digs aren't exactly up to snuff can flag down inspectors for a closer look anytime. Plus, if a landlord decides to play hardball and ignore repair requests, the ordinance has a trick up its sleeve to compel action: withholding rent payments until they patch things up.

The board wasn't divided on the issue, voting unanimously in support, but the game isn't over yet. The ordinance must pass one more bureaucratic hurdle—a second reading and final vote slated for 30 days from the initial shine of approval. If it clears, landlords and renters alike will be playing by a new set of rules, whether they're ready or not. The majority of landlords take good care of their units, Hahn pointed out, but this ordinance is for those few who might drop the ball.