District of Columbia Landlord/Tenant FAQs

• Q: Why Must I Pay An Additional $70.00 Eviction Fee When I Have Already Filed A Writ Of Restitution To Evict The Tenant?
  A: After the writ of restitution has been filed in the Landlord and Tenant Clerk`s Office and the U.S. Marshal has not evicted the tenant within the applicable 35 days, … More
• Q: I Was Wrongfully Evicted, What May I Do?
  A: Report to the Landlord and Tenant Clerk`s Office for the facts in the case. Contact an attorney to assist you. If you cannot afford an attorney, speak with the … More
• Q: How Can I Learn About D.C. Rental Law?
  A: The District of Columbia Housing Code (DCHC) is enforced by the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs` Housing Regulation Administration (HRA). The HRA … More
• Q: Is There Any Basic Information I Need To Know About Renting?
  A: Before you dive into the code`s specifics, there is one basic rule of thumb for D.C. apartment­hunting: Read your lease and understand what your responsibilities … More
• Q: What Do I Need To Know About My Security Deposit -- And When Can I Get It Back?
  A: The security deposit is often the first major exchange of money between a new tenant and a landlord. The HRA suggests you clearly understand the landlord`s terms and … More
• Q: Does My Security Deposit Collect Interest?
  A: The DCHC dictates that the interest rate on the deposit be equal to the passbook interest rate. The prevailing rate on either January 1 or July 1 applies for all or … More
• Q: Is There Anything Special I Need To Know About Getting A Group House?
  A: Since sprawling, high­rise apartment buildings are relatively scarce in D.C., group houses are a common rental option and come with a unique set of leasing issues. … More
• Q: If Something Needs To Be Fixed When I Move In, What Should I Do?
  A: If anything needs to be repaired when you move into an apartment, make a detailed list, give it to the landlord or his representatives, and either have it signed and … More
• Q: When Is A Landlord Permitted To Raise The Rent?
  A: The Rental Housing Act of 1985 covers more than 60 percent of all rental housing in the District. According to this law, there are several ways a landlord can raise an … More
• Q: Can I, As A Tenant, Be Cited For Violating Housing Codes?
  A: Yes, you can. Tenants can be and are issued Housing Violation Notices for unsanitary conditions says the HRA. The law dictates that tenants have a responsibility to … More
• 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

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