Key legal requirements for residential landlords and property managers operating in District of Columbia.
Governing statute: DC Code Title 42, Ch. 32 (Rental Housing Act) and Ch. 35 (Landlord-Tenant)
Maintain premises in habitable condition, comply with DC Housing Code, provide adequate heat (Oct 1 - May 1, minimum 68°F), hot water, pest control, working plumbing and electrical, maintain common areas
Report to DCRA for code enforcement, rent withholding via escrow, repair and deduct, rent abatement, or lease termination. Strong tenant protections under DC law
24 hours for conditions posing immediate threat to health/safety; 30 days for non-emergency housing code violations
DC Rental Housing Act provides rent stabilization for most units built before 1976. Annual increases capped at CPI + 2% (elderly/disabled: CPI). Voluntary agreements and hardship petitions available. Strong just-cause eviction protections.
Disclaimer: This is a general summary of District of Columbia landlord-tenant law and does not constitute legal advice. Local ordinances may impose additional requirements. Consult a qualified District of Columbia attorney for specific situations. Last reviewed: 2026-05.
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