District of Columbia landlord repair timeline
How long does a landlord in District of Columbia have to repair?
The clock most states set starts at the tenant’s written notice. Here is what the statute says, with the official source. It is general information, not legal advice.
- What it sets
- Not set by statute: repairs within a reasonable time after notice, with housing code violations cited by inspectors
- Statute
- Housing Regulations, 14 DCMR
- Official source
- DC Office of the Tenant Advocate, Housing Regulations
Not an emergency service. For a fire, a gas leak or anyone in danger, call 911 or the gas utility.
What District of Columbia law says, line by line
Each line restates the text it cites. Check the current version before you rely on it.
The District’s housing regulations are in Title 14 of the DC Municipal Regulations and apply to rental and non-rental housing.
14 DCMR, per the Office of the Tenant AdvocateThey set the housing code criteria for whether a home is properly maintained and kept in good repair.
14 DCMRThey cover how and when the District may abate housing code violations.
14 DCMRThey include the process for a tenant receivership when a landlord fails to keep the building in good repair.
14 DCMR
Checked October 21, 2026
Turn the statute into your own response times
City rules and your leases can be stricter than the state. Write your times as the strictest of the three.
- Count from when the tenant told you, because many deadlines start at notice
- Put heat, water, power and anything dangerous at the top, day or night
- Ask for notice in writing, and reply in writing, so the record exists if anyone asks
- Record every step with a time: the first reply, the booking, the visit and the confirmation
A question managers ask about District of Columbia
The Office of the Tenant Advocate summary sets no day count. Repairs are judged under the housing code in Title 14 DCMR, which also covers how the District abates violations and when a tenant receivership applies.
Managing in another state? Pick it hereThe same leak can have a different clock across a state line.
The clock starts at the tenant’s notice Ours answers at any hour