habitability protected.
Landlords must comply with the DC Housing Code. Tenants may withhold rent, repair and deduct, or sue after notice and documented violations.
What this means for you: DC's housing-code enforcement is robust; documented violations support withholding or repair-and-deduct.
Your next step: Report violations to DCRA/DOB and send a written repair request.
Source: D.C. Code § 42-3501.01 et seq.. Reviewed 2026-06-16 (needs local verification).
More District of Columbia rights: District of Columbia security deposit · District of Columbia eviction · District of Columbia entry notice · District of Columbia rent increase.
Repairs in nearby states: Maryland (habitability protected) · Virginia (habitability protected).
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and vary by locality; consult a licensed attorney or your local housing authority.
Updated July 2026