District of Columbia Rental inspections

Can the city inspect my rental property in District of Columbia?

The Mayor (through DC's housing inspectors) may inspect rental housing for code compliance at reasonable hours; a tenant's own unit needs the tenant's permission, an administrative search warrant, or an emergency. Statute text: "(a) Notwithstanding any other law or rule to the contrary, for the purpose of determining whether any housing accommodation is in compliance with applicable housing rules or construction code rules, the Mayor may enter upon and into any housing accommodation in the District, during all reasonable hours, to inspect the same; provided, that if a tenant of a housing accommodation does not give permission to inspect that portion of the premises under the tenant’s exclusive control, the Mayor shall not enter that portion of the premises unless the Mayor has: (1) A valid administrative search warrant pursuant to subsection (d) of this section which permits the inspection; or (2) A reasonable basis to believe that exigent circumstances require immediate entry into that portion of the premises to prevent an imminent danger to the public health or welfare." (D.C. Code § 42–3509.08).

Verified Source: D.C. Code § 42–3509.08 · last checked 2026-10-16