What Repairs Can DC Renters Do Themselves (and What They Can't)

Renters in the District of Columbia often want to fix minor issues themselves, but DC's rental laws clarify what tenants can and cannot repair. Understanding these boundaries helps protect your security deposit, avoid lease violations, and ensures a safe home.

DC Tenant Responsibilities for Repairs

In DC, tenants are generally expected to:

• Notify landlords promptly of damages or necessary repairs
• Keep their homes clean and safe
• Avoid causing damage beyond normal wear and tear

Most routine and major repairs, especially those affecting health and safety—such as plumbing, electricity, and heat—are legally the landlord's responsibility under the DC Housing Code.^[1]

What Renters Can Repair Themselves

Tenants in DC are allowed to make minor, non-structural fixes that don't affect the safety, systems, or value of the rental. Examples include:

• Changing light bulbs or batteries in smoke detectors
• Replacing air filters in HVAC units (only if specified in the lease)
• Tightening loose screws on doorknobs or cabinet handles

If in doubt, check your lease or contact your landlord before making any changes. Unauthorized repairs may violate your lease or DC law.

Repairs Tenants Cannot Do in DC

DC renters must not make repairs that:

• Alter plumbing, heating, or electrical systems
• Require permits, such as major appliance installation
• Change the security features (locks, windows) without landlord approval
• Remove or install permanent fixtures

These repairs are the landlord’s obligation under the DC Housing Code. Even well-intended DIY work could risk fines or lease penalties.

Requesting Repairs from Your Landlord

When you need something fixed beyond minor maintenance, always:

• Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible
• Keep a copy of your repair request for your records

If the landlord doesn’t respond in a timely manner, you can file a complaint with the District of Columbia Department of Buildings (DOB).

DC's Official Repair Request Forms

While many landlords accept informal repair requests by email, DC offers an official process for complaints:

• Department of Buildings (DOB) Housing Code Complaint Form
  • When to use: If your landlord fails to address repairs that affect habitability or violate the Housing Code, submit this form.
  • How to use: Complete the DOB online Housing Code Complaint Form and include your contact information and a clear description of the problem.

The DOB will inspect the property and can order your landlord to fix the problem.

What About 'Repair and Deduct'?

DC law may allow renters to "repair and deduct" only in certain situations:

• The repair is urgent and affects health or safety
• You have given written notice and a reasonable time to fix has passed
• You use a licensed professional and keep all receipts

Review Section 42-3505.53 of the Rental Housing Act for legal details.^[2] Always communicate with your landlord before going this route to avoid disputes.

What is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in DC?

The District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) handles residential tenant-landlord disputes, including repair issues.

If issues escalate (such as ongoing unaddressed repairs), tenants can file applications for hearings with the OAH using forms provided on its official website.

FAQs: DC Tenant DIY Repairs

1. Can DC renters change locks themselves?
   Only with landlord permission. Unauthorized lock changes can violate your lease and the Housing Code.
2. What if my landlord refuses to fix urgent problems?
   Submit a Housing Code Complaint to the Department of Buildings. This starts a formal inspection process.
3. Can tenants repaint their apartment?
   Only with landlord approval. Paint changes may affect your deposit or violate the lease.
4. Is it legal to repair appliances in my DC apartment?
   Appliance repairs are the landlord's duty unless your lease clearly says otherwise or you caused the damage.
5. What steps should I take before making any repairs?
   Always notify your landlord in writing, document the issue, and check your lease for specific rules.

Key Takeaways for DC Renters

• Do only minor, non-structural repairs yourself—major work is your landlord’s responsibility.
• Always report repair needs in writing and keep records.
• Use official DC forms and agencies for unresolved repair problems.

By staying informed and proactive, you protect your rights and your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• District of Columbia DOB – File a Housing Complaint
• Office of Administrative Hearings (Tenant-Landlord Cases)
• Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) – Counseling and legal resources
• Rental Housing Act & DC Housing Code

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1. See DC Housing Code (Title 42, Chapter 35)
2. See DC Rental Housing Act – Section 42-3505.53: Repairs and Deduction

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