Do DC rent control laws apply to mobile home lot fees?

Some DC mobile home parks may fall under rent control, which limits lot fee increases. Check with the DC Department of Housing and Community Development to see if your park is covered.

Can my landlord raise my lot fee without notice?

No, DC law requires at least 30 days' written notice before a landlord may raise your mobile home lot fee.

What should I do if my lot fee increase seems unfair?

You can file Form RAD 23.1 (Tenant Petition for Relief) with the Rental Accommodations Division to challenge the increase.

Who handles mobile home lot fee disputes in DC?

The DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) hears landlord-tenant disputes, including mobile home lot fee cases.

Are mobile home lot renters protected from eviction in DC?

Eviction requires just cause under DC law. Timely payment and following the lease help protect your tenancy.

Understanding Mobile Home Lot Fees in the District of Columbia

Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights District of Columbia published June 21, 2025

For renters in the District of Columbia who own their mobile home but rent the land it sits on, understanding mobile home lot fees is essential. These fees can impact your monthly housing cost, your rights as a tenant, and your ability to stay secure in your home. This guide explains what a mobile home lot fee is, how it's regulated in DC, and practical steps you can take if you have concerns.

What Is a Mobile Home Lot Fee?

A mobile home lot fee is the amount you pay to rent a parcel of land (or "lot") within a mobile home park or manufactured housing community. While you may own your mobile home itself, the land underneath it is typically owned by a landlord or park operator. The lot fee covers the right to keep your home on that lot and may include certain utilities, amenities, or maintenance provided by the landlord.

Typical Lot Fee Costs in the District of Columbia

The cost of a mobile home lot fee in DC can vary based on the location, amenities, and utilities included. While there is no standard amount set by the city government, it is common to see monthly lot rents ranging from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per month, depending on the property's location and facilities. Always ask your landlord for a breakdown of what is included in your lot fee (water, sewer, electricity, amenities, etc.).

How Mobile Home Lot Fees Are Regulated in DC

The District of Columbia regulates mobile home lot rentals under the Manufactured Housing and Mobile Home Park Rent Control Act of 1985^[1]. This law provides certain protections, especially if the mobile home park falls under the broader rent control laws of DC. Depending on the park's status, there may be limits to how much and how often your lot fee can increase. Landlords are also required to give written notice before raising lot fees or making changes to the rental agreement.

Key Rights and Responsibilities for Renters

Written Lease: You are entitled to a written lease clearly stating your monthly lot fee and any included services.
Advance Notice of Increases: Park owners must give at least 30 days' written notice of any lot fee increase.
Maintenance: The landlord is responsible for maintaining common areas, utilities, and community facilities as outlined in the lease.
Eviction Protection: DC law limits grounds for eviction from a mobile home lot and requires just cause.
Tribunal Oversight: Disputes between tenants and landlords can be addressed through the DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).

If you believe your lot fee increase is unlawful, or if you face issues such as poor maintenance or threat of eviction, state law provides pathways for making a formal complaint.

If you're unsure about your rights or feel pressured by sudden fee increases, reach out to a DC housing counselor or consider filing a formal complaint for protection under the law.

Official Forms for DC Mobile Home Renters

Tenant Petition for Relief (Form RAD 23.1): Use this form to contest an unlawful rent increase, maintenance issue, or lease violation. For example, if your landlord raises your lot fee without the proper notice, you can submit this petition to the DC Rental Accommodations Division.
Download Tenant Petition for Relief (Form RAD 23.1)
How to use: Fill out the form with your information, indicate your complaint, and submit it to the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Rental Accommodations Division.
Complaint Form: Office of Administrative Hearings – Submit this if you want your dispute resolved through a hearing. See more at the OAH Tenant Petitions & Forms page.

How to File a Complaint About a Lot Fee in DC

Collect your lease agreement and any written notice of fee changes.
Use the appropriate DC petition form (see above) to outline your complaint.
Submit the form to the DC Rental Accommodations Division or the Office of Administrative Hearings if legal intervention is needed.
Keep records of all communication and responses from your landlord.

FAQ: Mobile Home Lot Fees in DC

Do DC rent control laws apply to mobile home lot fees?
Some mobile home parks in DC may fall under the city's rent control laws, limiting fee increases. Check if your park is rent-controlled through the DC Rent Control resource page.
Can my landlord raise my lot fee without notice?
No, DC law requires landlords to provide at least 30 days' written notice before raising lot fees.
What should I do if I think my lot fee increase is unfair?
Complete and submit Form RAD 23.1, and consider contacting the DC Rental Accommodations Division for review.
Who do I contact if there are maintenance issues in my mobile home park?
Maintenance complaints should first be addressed to your landlord. If unresolved, you can file a petition with the DHCD or contact the DC Office of Administrative Hearings for assistance.
Am I protected from eviction if I keep paying my lot fee?
Eviction must be for just cause under DC law. Timely payment helps protect your tenancy, but other lease violations may also impact your rights. Learn about eviction protections at the DC Eviction Assistance page.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for DC Mobile Home Renters

Mobile home lot fees are regulated within DC, and you have significant legal protections as a renter.
Always request a written lease and ask for advance notice about any lot fee increases.
Use official forms and reach out to DC tenant resources if you need help challenging a fee or resolving a dispute.

Staying informed about your rights and responsibilities helps you protect your home and financial security when renting a lot in the District of Columbia.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

DC Rental Accommodations Division (DHCD) – Guidance and complaint resolution for mobile home and rental issues.
DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) – Handles tenant petitions and landlord-tenant disputes.
Eviction Assistance DC – Eviction prevention, tenant advocacy, and support programs.
DC Office of the Tenant Advocate – Free legal services and education for renters.
For additional help, contact the District of Columbia rental housing agencies.

Manufactured Housing and Mobile Home Park Rent Control Act of 1985 (District of Columbia Code Title 42, Chapter 32).
DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) official resources.
Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) for landlord-tenant cases.
Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) for direct renter support.