If you’ve ever tried to read through the D.C. housing code, you know it’s about as fun as assembling IKEA furniture without the instructions — upside down, in the dark, and in Swedish. But fear not! At EJF Rentals, we’ve got our Allen wrench ready and a flashlight in hand. This blog is your guide to understanding the top compliance risks D.C. landlords face and how we help keep you out of hot water.
1. The Licensing Labyrinth
Let’s start with the biggie: licensing. In D.C., you can’t just buy a charming rowhouse and slap a "For Rent" sign on the lawn. To legally rent your property, you need a Basic Business License (BBL) with the "Housing: Residential Rental" endorsement. That means registering with the DCRA, scheduling inspections, and renewing that license every two years. Oh, and don’t forget the Certificate of Occupancy if your property is multi-family!
How EJF helps: We work closely with trusted companies that specialize in it. Offering our clients additional guidance through the process, help answer questions and coordinate any necessary repairs to ensure your property is inspection-ready.
2. Rent Control Rules That Read Like a Soap Opera
Washington D.C. is one of the few cities with rent control laws still in place, and the rules are... let’s just say layered. Whether your property is exempt or subject to rent stabilization depends on when it was built, how many units it has, and whether it's owned by a corporate entity or a human one.
How EJF helps: We know the ins and outs and stay up to date with changes in the laws, so our clients don’t have to. W orking with a specialized compliance partner to make sure your property is following the latest rent control regulations. With the city’s Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) portal currently undergoing revisions, having expert guidance is more valuable than ever.
3. Housing Code Compliance: It’s What’s on the Inside That Counts
Chipped paint? That could be a lead paint hazard. Drafty windows? That might violate insulation standards. D.C.'s housing code is strict and includes specific requirements for everything from lighting and ventilation to mold prevention and pest control.
How EJF helps: Our expert property managers perform regular inspections and coordinate repairs with licensed contractors to ensure your property meets code. Click here for the DC Housing Code Standards
4. The Tenant Bill of Rights: Yes, That’s a Thing
Tenants in D.C. have more rights than a royal corgi. From the right to receive a copy of the Tenant Bill of Rights to the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA), landlords must follow very specific protocols when renting or selling.
How EJF helps: We make sure tenants receive all required documentation and guide landlords through TOPA notices and other requirements with accuracy and care.
5. Security Deposits: No, It’s Not Free Money
You can't just stick that deposit in your sock drawer and hope for the best. D.C. law requires that security deposits be held in a separate, interest-bearing account. Interest must be returned to the tenant, and deductions must be fully itemized with receipts.
How EJF helps: We manage security deposit accounting so that everything is compliant, traceable, and well-documented.
6. Evictions: A Legal Tightrope Walk
Evictions in D.C. are a serious business. You must follow due process, including proper notice, a court hearing, and coordination with the U.S. Marshals for the actual eviction.
How EJF helps: We handle everything from delinquency notices to court coordination through trusted legal professionals. The good news? Thanks to our proactive tenant screening, communication, and property oversight, it's been a long time since we’ve had to orchestrate an eviction — and we aim to keep it that way.
7. Fair Housing Compliance: Be the Landlord Everyone Loves
D.C. has some of the broadest fair housing protections in the nation — including traits like source of income (such as vouchers), gender identity, and political affiliation. One poorly worded ad can spell big trouble.
How EJF helps: Our leasing team is thoroughly trained in fair housing laws, using objective criteria for every applicant. What are protected traits? Click here to learn more.
Wrapping It All Up Like a Well-Folded Lease Agreement
Owning property in D.C. can be incredibly rewarding — it’s a vibrant, diverse city with strong rental demand. But managing rental property here without a guide is like trying to hike Rock Creek Park with a broken compass.
That’s where we come in. At EJF Rentals, we handle the nitty-gritty so you can enjoy the benefits of property ownership without the headaches. Whether it's licensing guidance, compliance support, maintenance coordination, or tenant relations, we’ve got your back.
Want to sleep better at night? Hire a property manager. Better yet, hire us.
Call Conrad today at 202.803.7200 to learn how our expert team can take care of all your property management needs!
