Attorneys

District of Columbia Landlord/Tenant FAQs

• Q: Does A Landlord Have An Obligation To Heat An Apartment?
  A: If the heat in your apartment is not under your control, the law dictates that the landlord must keep your apartment at a minimum 68 degrees Fahrenheit between 6:30 … More
• Q: What About Air Conditioning?
  A: If air conditioning is provided by your landlord, it must be in good and safe working order and be able to cool your apartment down to at least 15 degrees Fahrenheit … More
• Q: What Can I Be Evicted For -- And What Is The Process?
  A: A landlord may not evict you without prior, written notice, except in the case of non­payment of rent. If a landlord wants to evict you for violating your tenancy … More
• Q: What Else Does The Tenant's Guide Cover?
  A: In addition to explaining much of the above in fuller detail, The HRA`s Tenant`s Guide outlines the full hearing and adjudication process after a tenant complaint is … More
• Q: Can The Hra Help Me In Other Ways?
  A: If you have questions about housing code violations, call the HRA at (202) 727­7673. If you have questions about rent stabilization laws, security deposits or … More
• Q: How May I Get The Landlord To Make Repairs?
  A: First, call the Rental Accommodations Office concerning complaints and requests for instructions 202­442­4610. If you have a court date, mention the repairs to … More
• Q: Can My Landlord Enter My Apartment -- Or Let Repairmen In -- When I'm Not There?
  A: Housing laws do not address a landlord`s ability to enter an apartment, or let repairmen in, without prior notification. If you want to establish what the ground rules … More
• Q: Whom Do I Call If I Disagree With My Landlord?
  A: If you have a dispute with a landlord that you cannot resolve, you can file an official complaint with the Housing Regulation Administration. When you call, be sure to … More
• Q: May I Sue The Landlord For Damage To Property?
  A: Suits for damages must be filed in the Small Claims and Conciliation Branch, Room JM­260, if the amount is $5,000 or less. Suits for damages more than $5,000 must … More
• Q: Should I Ask The Landlord For An Official Inspection Of The Apartment Before I Move In?
  A: The DCHC states that apartments and their furnishings must be in a clean, safe and sanitary condition.

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