How to File a Repair Request That Gets Results in DC

If you’re renting in the District of Columbia and your apartment needs urgent maintenance or repairs, knowing how to file a repair request can help you protect your comfort, safety, and rights as a tenant. DC law recognizes your right to a habitable home—and there are clear steps and official resources available to help you communicate with your landlord and, if needed, escalate your concern.

Your Right to Repairs in DC Rentals

DC tenants are protected by the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR), which require landlords to provide safe, livable, and well-maintained rental units. If something breaks, becomes dangerous, or threatens your health (like mold, plumbing leaks, or broken heat), you have the right to request a timely repair.^[1] Be sure to document problems and act early so issues don’t worsen.

When and How to Formally Request Repairs

For most general maintenance (like leaky faucets or broken appliances), landlords often respond to a simple call or email. But when the problem is urgent, affects your health or safety, or the landlord hasn’t responded, you should file a written repair request.

Action Steps: Filing a Written Repair Request

• Describe the problem: Be specific—note what’s broken, when it started, and what you need fixed.
• Request a timeline: State when you’d like the repair completed (allowing reasonable time for response).
• Keep documentation: Save copies of your request, photos of the issue, and any relevant communication.
• Deliver officially: Send your repair request by certified mail, or request delivery confirmation if sent by email.

Sample Form: Official DC Tenant Repair Request

While DC does not require a specific “repair request form,” you can use the Office of the Tenant Advocate Sample Repair Request Letter for guidance. This is a template designed to help DC tenants communicate issues clearly and formally to the landlord.

• When to use: If your landlord is unresponsive or you need to document your request for possible future complaints.
• How to use: Complete the template, attach any evidence (photos, previous messages), and deliver to your landlord by hand or certified mail. Keep a copy for your records.

If Repairs Are Not Made: Next Steps for DC Renters

If your landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, or refuses to make legally-required repairs, you have several options to escalate.

• Contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA): The OTA can provide advice, resources, and sometimes help mediate.
• File a complaint with the Department of Buildings: Use the Housing Code Inspection request to report unsafe living conditions.
• Take legal action: If major repairs are still not made, renters can file a formal complaint with the Office of Administrative Hearings (Landlord & Tenant Branch).

Relevant DC Legislation

DC rental repair rights are protected under the DC Municipal Regulations Title 14 (Housing) and the Rental Housing Act of 1985.^[1][2] These laws set minimum housing standards, response times, and procedures for tenants and landlords.

FAQ: DC Tenant Repair Requests

1. What if my landlord doesn't respond to my written repair request?
   Allow a reasonable time (typically 7-14 days for non-emergencies). If there's no response, you can contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate or request a government inspection.
2. Can I withhold rent if my landlord refuses to make repairs?
   Withholding rent without legal order is risky. In DC, tenants should file a formal complaint via the Office of Administrative Hearings or request a housing inspection before considering this step.
3. How quickly must a landlord fix hazardous issues?
   DC landlords must address health or safety hazards immediately (such as heat outages in winter, sewer leaks, or electrical failures). Non-urgent repairs must be made within a reasonable time, usually up to 30 days.^[1]
4. Is an email repair request legally valid?
   Yes, as long as you can prove it was sent and received. Using certified mail or email with delivery/read confirmation is safest.
5. What government agency handles rental disputes in DC?
   The Office of Administrative Hearings (Landlord and Tenant Branch) resolves rental repair disputes and other residential tenancy matters.

Key Takeaways for DC Renters

• Always submit repair requests in writing and keep records.
• Seek help from official agencies if your landlord is unresponsive.
• DC law requires landlords to provide safe, habitable housing and protects tenants from retaliation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA): Free advice, templates, and help resolving maintenance issues
• Office of Administrative Hearings – Landlord and Tenant Branch: Handles formal repair complaints and rental disputes
• DC Department of Buildings – Housing Code Inspections: File for inspection of unsafe rental conditions
• DC Rental Housing Act of 1985 – Full Text
• DC Municipal Regulations Title 14 – Housing

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1. See DCMR Title 14: Housing for maintenance, repair, and habitability requirements.
2. See DC Code § 42–3505.02 for tenant rights, repair obligations, and anti-retaliation rules.

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