Mobile Home Park Dispute Resolution in District of Columbia

If you rent a mobile home or manufactured home lot in the District of Columbia, you have important rights and protections. Sometimes, disagreements with your park owner or manager—such as concerns about rent increases, evictions, or park maintenance—can be stressful. Fortunately, the District has official processes and agencies to help resolve these disputes and ensure your voice is heard.

Understanding Disputes in Mobile Home Parks

Disagreements in mobile home communities may involve:

• Unfair rent increases
• Alleged lease violations or threatened eviction
• Repairs or park maintenance that isn’t addressed
• Changes in park rules

When communication with management doesn’t work, you have legal options for resolving these disputes.

Which Agency Handles Mobile Home Park Disputes?

The District of Columbia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) oversees most landlord-tenant matters, including mobile home parks. However, formal complaints and hearings are handled by the Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) and the Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) within DHCD.

Renters can seek resolution through these agencies for issues like disputes over rent control, security deposits, repairs, and evictions.

District of Columbia Tenancy Legislation

The primary law protecting tenants in DC—covering mobile homes and manufactured housing—is the Rental Housing Act of 1985 (D.C. Code Title 42, Chapter 35) . This law details your rights regarding rent increases, evictions, and dispute procedures.¹

Steps to Resolve a Mobile Home Park Dispute in DC

If you have a dispute, follow these steps:

• Communicate in writing with your landlord or park manager about your concerns.
• Keep copies of all letters, emails, or notes for your records.
• If that doesn't work, file a formal complaint with the DC Rental Accommodations Division or request help from the Office of the Tenant Advocate.

Filing a Formal Complaint

• Form Name: RAD Complaint Form (Rental Accommodations and Conversion Division Complaint Form)
  When/How Used: Submit this form if you believe your rights under the Rental Housing Act have been violated—such as improper rent increases or lack of repairs. For example, if your park owner raises rent without proper notice or a legal reason, you would fill out this form.
  Get the official RAD Complaint Form here
• Form Name: Tenant Petition Form RAD Form 5
  When/How Used: Use this form if you want to formally contest issues like rent increases or park rule changes under DC’s rent control laws. For example, if your landlord increases rent above the legal limit, submit this form.
  Download RAD Form 5 - Tenant Petition

Once a complaint or petition is filed, the appropriate office will review your documents, contact the landlord or park owner, and may schedule mediation or a hearing.

What to Expect from the Dispute Resolution Process

DC’s Rental Accommodations Division may try mediation first, encouraging both parties to come to an agreement. If this fails, a formal hearing will be set with the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), where both sides can present evidence and get a decision.

• Mediation is voluntary and confidential—both sides discuss issues with a neutral expert.
• Hearings are more formal but designed to be accessible, and renters do not need to hire a lawyer.

For severe or ongoing issues, especially those involving eviction or significant rent hikes, don’t wait—file promptly and reach out for guidance.

Summary

The District of Columbia has several agencies and forms to help renters in mobile home parks. Following the process can protect your rights and encourage fair resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my park owner increases rent without notice?
   First, check your written lease and DC law. Then, contact the Rental Accommodations Division or complete a Tenant Petition Form if you think the increase is illegal.
2. Where can I get help to complete the RAD Complaint Form?
   The Office of the Tenant Advocate offers assistance with forms and legal questions. You can visit their website or call for direct support.
3. Is there a deadline for filing a dispute or complaint?
   Most complaints should be filed within three years of the incident, but it’s best to act as soon as possible for the strongest case.
4. Can my landlord evict me while my complaint is being reviewed?
   In most cases, DC law restricts landlords from evicting tenants who have filed official complaints or petitions, except for specific legal reasons like nonpayment.
5. Is mediation required before a hearing?
   Many cases begin with mediation, but you can proceed to a formal hearing if mediation doesn’t resolve the issue.

Key Takeaways

• The District of Columbia offers official agencies and forms to help resolve mobile home park disputes.
• Keep records and use the proper forms to protect your rights.
• Assistance is available from the Office of the Tenant Advocate and Rental Accommodations Division.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) Contact Page
• Office of the Tenant Advocate – Contact & Services
• Office of Administrative Hearings - Landlord & Tenant Branch
• DC Rental Housing Act – See Full Legislation

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1. District of Columbia Rental Housing Act of 1985 (D.C. Code Title 42, Chapter 35)
2. DHCD Official Tenant and Landlord Forms
3. Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) – DHCD
4. Rental Accommodations Division (RAD)
5. Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) – DC

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