Renter's Rights in LA--Rent Reduction? (Los Angeles, Fairfax: apartments, tenant, inspection)

[MKP1979]

I live in an old apartment building in the Miracle Mile area (Wilshire/Fairfax).
It was built in 1946 & just got a "substandard" score on an inspection. Most of the units are bachelors--one room with a bathroom, no kitchen.

There are sinks in the main living area and we were provided with a hot plate, refridge & microwave upon move-in. Now the owners are removing all kitchen-type improvements and hot plates from the apartments. Is this legal? Can we fight to keep our hot-plates? What the hell is the use of having an apartment if I can't cook in it? Might as well live in a motel.

I've been researching apt law ([url=http://www.caltenantlaw.com/LARSO.htm]LA Rent Control Made Simple[/url]) to find out our rights.
I did see somewhere a zoning law about not using rooms for things they weren't intended to be used for (ie a kitchen in your bedroom). But these units don't have separate rooms apart from the bathroom. My rent is $850/mo with utilites included.

Wondering if anyone has some legal bits I can use to fight for our rights against the owners.

Thank you!

[BennyPhoenix]

If an amenity is being removed that was part of the deal when you moved in then you must be compensated through a rent reduction.
Contact the Los Angeles Housing Dept for your best course of action.