Are transitional housing residents considered tenants under DC law?

Many transitional housing residents have tenant-like rights in DC, especially related to notice and appeals, though specific rules may vary by program.

How much notice must I get before removal?

DC law and most programs require written notice before removal, usually 15–30 days, except in emergencies.

Can I be evicted from transitional housing for any reason?

No, removal must be consistent with program rules and DC law. You have the right to a fair process and to dispute discharge.

Where can I appeal a decision to terminate my housing?

You can seek an internal program appeal and, if necessary, file with the District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).

Do protections against discrimination apply in transitional housing?

Yes, transitional tenants are protected under DC and federal anti-discrimination laws. Complaints can be filed with DC's Office of Human Rights.

District of Columbia Transitional Housing Tenant Rights Guide

Special Housing Types & Situations District of Columbia published June 21, 2025

Transitional housing in the District of Columbia provides important, temporary support to residents moving out of homelessness or crisis. If you're living in a transitional housing program, it's crucial to understand that you do have specific tenant rights in DC. This guide explains your legal protections, dispute options, and the forms you may need to assert your rights.

What Is Transitional Housing?

Transitional housing typically offers temporary accommodations—often for 6 to 24 months—for people leaving shelters, recovering from crisis, or needing stable housing as they work toward independence. These programs may be run by non-profits, government agencies, or faith-based organizations and often come with supportive services.

Do Transitional Housing Tenants Have Legal Rights in DC?

Yes, people living in transitional housing in DC generally have legal protections, though these may be different from those in standard rental apartments. Some transitional programs may have special rules set by funding sources or government programs, but many tenant protections still apply.

Key Tenant Rights in Transitional Housing

The right to habitable and safe living conditions
The right to written notice before eviction or removal
The right to reasonable privacy and due process
Protection against unlawful discrimination under DC and federal law
Some rights to appeal discharge or program termination

The District of Columbia Housing for Homeless Persons Act and DC's Rental Housing Act set out important legal protections for transitional tenants.^[1][2]

Eviction and Discharge from Transitional Housing

Transitional housing residents may not have the exact same eviction protections as long-term tenants but still have rights to notice and, in most cases, a fair process.

Generally, written notice is required before being asked to leave
You may have the right to dispute removal or program termination (often called a "grievance procedure")
Evictions typically must follow both program guidelines and state law

If you receive a notice of removal, act quickly to understand your options and, if needed, request a grievance hearing or file a complaint with the proper authority.

Filing a Complaint or Disputing a Program Decision

If you believe you are being mistreated or unlawfully evicted, you can take action through the following steps:

Request the transitional housing program’s written grievance procedure or appeal instructions
If your rights are violated, you may file a formal complaint with the DC Office of Human Rights for discrimination or the Office of the Tenant Advocate for general tenant disputes
If discharge violates local law, you may also appeal to the District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), the official tribunal for many rental housing disputes in DC.

Key Forms for DC Transitional Tenants

Complaint Intake Form (OHR Form): Use this form if you believe you have been discriminated against based on source of income, disability, or other protected status. For example, if a transitional program tries to evict you without proper process due to your disability, you can file this form with DC's Office of Human Rights.
Process: Download and fill out the complaint form here and submit it as instructed.
Application for Hearing (OAH Appeal Form): Use this to request a hearing if you believe your removal from transitional housing is not lawful. Example: If you are discharged for reasons you believe violate DC law, you may appeal to OAH using this form.

Tip: Always keep copies of any notices or letters you receive from your program, and note the date you received them.

Summary of Key Transitional Housing Tenant Protections

While transitional housing tenants in DC may have unique agreements, several rights and options protect your housing stability:

Safe, healthy living conditions
Right to written notice of discharge or removal
Access to fair grievance and appeals procedures
Protection from discrimination

If a disagreement cannot be resolved, DC residents can access official tribunals or agencies for help.

FAQ: Transitional Housing Tenant Rights in DC

Are transitional housing residents considered tenants under DC law?
Many transitional housing residents do have tenant-like rights, especially regarding notice and appeals. However, rules may vary, so check your program documents and DC law for details.
How much notice must I get before removal?
DC law and most programs require written notice—commonly 15–30 days—unless there's an emergency. Always read your program agreement.
Can I be evicted from transitional housing for any reason?
No. Eviction or removal must be for reasons consistent with program rules and DC law. You have the right to a fair process and to dispute a discharge.
Where can I appeal a decision to terminate my housing?
You can seek an internal grievance procedure first; for legal violations, you may appeal to the District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).
Do protections against discrimination apply in transitional housing?
Yes. Federal and DC anti-discrimination laws protect transitional tenants. File complaints with DC's Office of Human Rights if you experience discrimination.

Conclusion: What DC Transitional Housing Tenants Should Know

Transitional tenants in DC have key rights: written notice, the right to safe conditions, and grievance procedures
Eviction or removal must follow proper process and may be appealed
Discrimination is prohibited; several DC agencies can assist if problems arise

Knowing your rights can help you navigate transitional housing programs confidently and safely.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) – handles transitional and other housing appeals
DC Office of Human Rights – files discrimination complaints
DC Office of the Tenant Advocate – renter education and assistance
DC Housing Resource Guide – find more transitional and long-term housing help