Pest Infestation Rights for DC Renters: Steps and Solutions

Health & Safety Standards District of Columbia published: June 21, 2025 Flag of District of Columbia

Pest infestations in apartments—such as bed bugs, cockroaches, or rodents—can threaten your health and comfort. District of Columbia renters are protected by strong health and safety standards that require landlords to maintain safe, pest-free housing. If you’re facing pest issues, it’s helpful to know your rights, what a landlord must do, and the legal steps to resolve problems quickly and safely in Washington, DC.

Your Right to Safe, Pest-Free Housing in DC

Under the DC Housing Code, landlords must provide apartments that meet basic health and safety standards, which includes being free from pest infestations like roaches, mice, and bed bugs. This responsibility is part of what’s known as “warranty of habitability.” Landlords must address infestations unless tenants personally caused the problem through neglect.

  • Landlords must regularly inspect rental units and respond to pest complaints promptly.
  • If an infestation occurs, landlords must hire licensed pest control, pay the costs, and document all actions taken.
  • Tenants must report pest issues in writing and cooperate with pest control treatments.

The main DC law covering these rights and duties is the District of Columbia Housing Code, Title 14 DCMR Chapter 3, along with tenant protections found in the Rental Housing Act of 1985.[1]

What to Do About a Pest Infestation in Your Apartment

If you discover pests in your rental unit, take these steps to notify your landlord and protect your rights:

  • Document evidence: Take photos or video of the pests, droppings, or entry points.
  • Notify your landlord in writing: Use email, certified mail, or the DC Official "Request for Repairs" form (see below).
  • Allow access: Cooperate with any scheduled treatments, provide access to pest control professionals as required by lease and law.
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Filing a Formal Complaint: Forms and Tribunals

If your landlord doesn’t fix the pest problem within a reasonable time (typically within 30 days for non-emergency issues, or sooner if health and safety are threatened), you may escalate your complaint.

  • DC Department of Buildings (DOB): File a formal complaint if your apartment remains infested after notification. The DOB inspects rental properties and can order repairs. Access the online complaint system here.
  • Rental Housing Commission (RHC): Handles more serious disputes between tenants and landlords, including failure to repair health and safety issues. See DC Rental Housing Commission.

Official Forms Renters Can Use

  • Request for Repairs Form: Used to make a written repair request. Submit to your landlord and keep a copy for your own records. Available from the DHCD official site.
  • Housing Code Complaint: File online with DC Department of Buildings if the issue isn’t resolved by the landlord.

Example: You notice cockroaches in your kitchen. You fill out the "Request for Repairs" form and send it by email to your property manager. They do not act within two weeks, so you file a Housing Code Complaint online through the DOB portal.

Understanding Your Landlord’s Responsibilities

Your landlord must take all reasonable steps to eliminate pests and prevent recurrence—including scheduling timely pest control services, making repairs to prevent access, and treating affected units and common areas as needed.

  • Major repairs (such as sealing holes, fixing leaks, or replacing damaged materials) must be completed to prevent pest return.
  • Landlords cannot charge you for pest control unless your actions specifically caused the infestation (for example, by ignoring garbage storage rules).

If the landlord does not correct the violation after DOB intervention or orders, you may have grounds to file a formal case before the Rental Housing Commission under the DC Rental Housing Act.[2]

Tip: Always keep copies of all complaints, forms, and correspondence with your landlord.

FAQ: Pest Infestation Rights for DC Renters

  1. Can my landlord charge me for pest control in DC?
    In most cases, landlords cannot charge tenants for pest control services unless you directly caused the problem through violations of your lease or DC housing rules.
  2. What if my landlord doesn’t respond to my pest complaint?
    If your landlord fails to act, you may file a Housing Code Complaint with the DC Department of Buildings, which can require corrective action or issue fines.
  3. Am I allowed to hire my own pest control company and deduct the cost?
    Only in rare cases if you have notified your landlord in writing and given them a reasonable opportunity to address the issue; always check with the Rental Housing Commission before deducting rent.
  4. How long does a landlord have to address a pest infestation?
    DC law expects landlords to address health threats quickly, usually within days for emergencies and within 30 days for other pest problems.
  5. What government body oversees tenant complaints about pests?
    The DC Department of Buildings (DOB) investigates housing code violations; unresolved disputes may go to the DC Rental Housing Commission.

Key Takeaways for DC Renters Dealing with Pests

  • DC law protects your right to live in a pest-free home.
  • Document and report pest issues to your landlord in writing.
  • If not resolved, file a complaint with the DC Department of Buildings or the Rental Housing Commission.

Staying proactive and informed can help ensure a safe, healthy apartment for you and your family.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. District of Columbia Housing Code, Title 14 DCMR Chapter 3
  2. Rental Housing Act of 1985 (Title 42, Chapter 35)

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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