Mobile Home Park Rent Increase Limits in DC: What Renters Need to Know

Living in a mobile home park in the District of Columbia comes with both community benefits and unique renter protections. If you're facing a potential rent increase or want to know your rights as a manufactured home park resident, it's essential to understand D.C.'s specific rent controls, notice requirements, and the resources available to you.

Understanding Rent Increase Rules for Mobile Home Parks in D.C.

Mobile home park residents in the District of Columbia are protected under some of the nation’s strictest rent control laws, designed to promote housing stability and fairness. Rent increases in covered mobile home parks are regulated by D.C.'s rent stabilization program, and specific processes must be followed by park owners before changing your rent.

Are Rent Increases Limited in Mobile Home Parks?

Yes. In most cases, your landlord cannot increase rent by more than the annual rent increase cap, which is set each year based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and D.C. law. For 2024, the standard maximum rent increase is the CPI plus 2 percent, but never more than 10 percent.^[1]

• Rent increases above this amount require official approval from the D.C. Rental Accommodations Division.
• You must receive written notice at least 30 days in advance of any rent increase.
• Special rules apply if you're a senior citizen or a person with a disability—your rent increase cap is lower (CPI only, never more than 5%).

Not all mobile home parks are automatically covered—parks built after 1975 or owned by certain entities may be exempt. Always check your lease and ask the D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) about your building’s status.

Required Notice and Documentation

Landlords must use an official form to notify you of a rent increase:

• Notice of Rent Adjustment (RAD Form 6)
  Official RAD Form 6 – Notice of Proposed Rent Adjustment
  When used: Your landlord must complete and deliver this form at least 30 days before any intended rent increase.
  Example: If you receive a RAD Form 6 dated February 1, your new rent cannot start before March 3 of the same year.

Always keep a copy of any notice you receive. If the landlord fails to give proper notice or uses the wrong form, the rent increase may not be valid.

Can You Challenge a Rent Increase?

Absolutely. If you believe your rent has been increased unfairly or illegally, you can file a petition:

• Tenant Petition (RAD Form 3)
  Official RAD Form 3 – Tenant Petition
  When used: File this form when disputing a rent increase, alleging overcharging, or reporting violations of rent control regulations.
  Example: You receive a rent increase above the annual cap without written justification. You fill out RAD Form 3 and submit it to the Rental Accommodations Division.

The Rental Housing Commission handles appeals and disputes on rent increases and other rental housing matters in D.C.

Your Essential Rights as a Mobile Home Park Renter

• Rent increases are generally limited—most renters are protected by D.C.'s rent stabilization law.
• Your landlord must provide a written RAD Form 6 notice at least 30 days before the increase is effective.
• You have the right to challenge unfair increases through the Rental Accommodations Division.

Relevant D.C. Legislation

D.C.'s rent control laws for mobile home parks are established under the Rental Housing Act of 1985, D.C. Code § 42-3501 et seq.^[2]

How to Challenge a Rent Increase: Step-by-Step

If you believe your rent increase is unlawful or exceeds the allowed limit, here’s what you can do:

• Verify your status: Confirm your mobile home is covered by D.C. rent stabilization.
• Check your rent notice: Is it the official RAD Form 6, delivered at least 30 days in advance?
• Gather evidence: Save copies of your current lease, all payment records, and the rent increase notice.
• Download and fill out the Tenant Petition (RAD Form 3).
• File RAD Form 3 with the Rental Accommodations Division: Include all supporting documents.
• Follow up: The Rental Housing Commission will review your case and may schedule a hearing. Attend as required and present your evidence.

This process allows D.C. renters in mobile home parks to stand up for their rights if they suspect any improper rent changes.

Frequently Asked Questions about D.C. Mobile Home Park Rent Increases

1. How much can my landlord legally increase my rent in a D.C. mobile home park?
   For 2024, most rent increases are limited to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 2%, up to a maximum of 10% per year. Lower caps apply if you are a senior or have a disability.
2. Do I have to receive advance notice of any rent increase?
   Yes. Your landlord must give you a written Notice of Proposed Rent Adjustment (RAD Form 6) at least 30 days before the increase takes effect.
3. What if I believe the rent increase is illegal?
   You can fill out a Tenant Petition (RAD Form 3) and file it with the Rental Accommodations Division to challenge the increase.
4. Where can I check if my mobile home is covered by D.C. rent control?
   Contact the DHCD Rent Administrator or search by address using their public records portal.
5. Who handles tenant complaints and rent increase disputes in D.C.?
   The Rental Housing Commission and the Rental Accommodations Division manage these matters. See official contact information.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Mobile Home Residents in D.C.

• Know the annual rent increase limits and your coverage status.
• Written notice using the correct form is always required for rent hikes.
• You have the right to challenge illegal increases using official city channels.

Being informed helps protect your housing stability and your rights as a mobile home park renter in the District of Columbia.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) – Rent Control Info
• Rental Housing Commission
• RAD Form 6 – Notice of Proposed Rent Adjustment (Official Form)
• RAD Form 3 – Tenant Petition (Official Form)
• University Legal Services (Tenant Advocacy)
• D.C. Rental Housing Act (Official Legislation)

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1. D.C. Rent Control CPI Adjustment 2024, Department of Housing and Community Development
2. Rental Housing Act of 1985, D.C. Code § 42-3501 et seq.

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