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Washington, DC Rental Property Rules: Repairs & Habitability (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governing law
D.C. Code § 6-901
Enforcing body
Board for Condemnation of Insanitary Buildings
Repair deadline
At least 30 days after condemnation order
Occupancy violation penalty
Fine up to $100 or 90 days jail

Summary

The Mayor can inspect any District building for habitability and sanitary condition, condemning those found unsafe or filthy until they are repaired, demolished, or made habitable and sanitary again.

The Mayor may examine the habitability and sanitary condition of all buildings in the District of Columbia, to condemn those buildings which are in such insanitary condition as to endanger the health or lives of the occupants thereof or persons living in the vicinity, and to cause all buildings to be habitable and sanitary or to be demolished and removed.

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Full Breakdown

D.C. Code § 6-901 lets the Mayor's agents enter and inspect any building in the District to check its habitability and sanitary condition. Under § 6-901(b), a building is "uninhabitable" if it's in an unlivable condition from deterioration, infestation, improper maintenance, decaying structures, insufficient light or ventilation, inadequate plumbing, a defective electrical system, or filthy conditions posing a fire, health, or safety hazard. If the Board for the Condemnation of Insanitary Buildings confirms an insanitary or uninhabitable condition, it orders the owner to repair or demolish the structure within a set deadline, and bars occupancy until the order is lifted.

Violations & Fines

Occupying a condemned building is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $100 or 90 days in jail under D.C. Code § 6-916, with each day of continued violation a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a D.C. rental legally uninhabitable?
Under D.C. Code § 6-901(b), a building is uninhabitable if deterioration, infestation, poor maintenance, decaying structure, inadequate light, ventilation, or plumbing, a defective electrical system, or filthy conditions create a fire, health, or safety hazard.
Can I be forced out of a condemned D.C. rental?
Yes. Under D.C. Code § 6-904, no one may occupy a condemned building or part of one after 15 days from service of the condemnation order, unless the Board specially authorizes continued occupancy.
Does the District repair habitability violations itself?
If an owner fails to fix a condemned building's condition, D.C. Code § 6-907 lets the Board carry out the repairs or demolition itself and bill the cost as a tax against the property.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Washington

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All Washington rules

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