Harbor City is a City of Los Angeles neighborhood between San Pedro, Lomita and Torrance, centered on Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park and Machado Lake. Its mix of 1970s homes, apartments and mobile home parks gives it a few water problems of its own.
What’s different about Harbor City
- Many mobile homes. About 15% of homes in ZIP 90710 are mobile homes, far more than nearby areas. Common leak points are roof seams, windows, the water heater closet and plumbing under the floor, where a drip can soak the subfloor and insulation unseen. Look behind the skirting now and then.
- 1970s housing. The 1970s is the most common decade of construction here (about 28% of homes), and about 62% were built before 1980.
- A natural low point. Machado Lake collects runoff from a 9,000-acre watershed, and FEMA maps flood zones over and around the lake and park. Check your address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.
- Two water providers. Most of Harbor City is served by LADWP, but Cal Water serves some portions. Your water bill shows which one.
Housing figures: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates (via Census Reporter), ZIP 90710. Machado Lake: LA Public Works.
Who to call in Harbor City
- Water main or meter leak: LADWP, 1-800-342-5397 (24/7), or Cal Water if they bill you.
- Sewer backup or overflow: LA Sanitation, 1-800-773-2489, 24/7.
- Renters in apartments: Los Angeles Housing Department, (866) 557-7368, or the LAHD online complaint. See our renter’s guide to mold.
- Single-family homes and permits: LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS code enforcement). Mobile home parks are inspected by the state or local agency that oversees the park; ask the park manager which one.
What to do first
- Stop the water at the fixture valve or the main shutoff, and stay away from wet outlets and cords.
- Photograph the damage before anything is moved. Insurers and landlords both ask for it.
- Start drying within 24 to 48 hours. That is the EPA’s window for keeping mold from starting.
Talk to a local water damage or mold company
Free referral service. Give your ZIP code (90710) so you’re matched with a company that serves Harbor City.
Sources checked October 31, 2026: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates (via Census Reporter); LA Public Works; City of LA Wilmington–Harbor City Community Plan; Cal Water; LADWP; LA Sanitation; LAHD; LADBS; FEMA.