District of Columbia rental license process

In DC, long-term rental compliance usually means: (1) Get/renew the Basic Business License (Rental Housing) through DLCP, including passing a required housing inspection, and (2) Register the rental accommodation with DHCD's RAD (Rent Registry) as rent-stabilized or exempt, including keeping filings updated. We handle each step for you.

Confirm the Correct Rental Category

Same day (admin review)

We determine whether the property is a one-family rental, two-family rental, apartment/multi-unit, condo unit, etc., because category affects Certificate of Occupancy expectations and licensing workflow.

Prepare Business Prerequisites

Often 1-7 days depending on tax setup/issues

We establish DC tax registration and pass Clean Hands check as part of the BBL application flow.

Request / Schedule the Required Rental Housing Inspection

Scheduling can vary; plan 1-3+ weeks depending on availability and fixes

DC requires passing an inspection to obtain/renew the rental-property-provider BBL; inspection has no cost, but re-inspection is $90 if you fail or reschedule late. DOB typically contacts you within 10 business days to schedule after you submit a request.

Pass Inspection and Obtain/Renew the Basic Business License

Often days to a couple weeks after inspection, depending on application completeness

After passing inspection and approval, DLCP issues the BBL (commonly via the online portal/downloadable).

Register in Rent Registry (RAD) — or File Claim of Exemption

Filing itself can be same-day; approval/processing depends on completeness

We register the accommodation/units with DHCD RAD via RentRegistry (or RAD forms). Unregistered units are treated as rent-stabilized unless an exemption is approved, and exemption claims generally need supporting documentation. Registration or claim of exemption must be filed within 30 days of acquiring ownership or offering the unit for rent.

Maintain Ongoing Compliance (Updates, Notices, Renewals)

Ongoing

RAD instructions emphasize updating registration information within 30 days of changes. BBL requires periodic renewal and another inspection cycle.

Overall timeline

Best case (no repairs needed): ~2-4 weeks to get inspection scheduled + BBL issued + RentRegistry filing completed. If inspection fails/repairs required: add 1-6+ weeks depending on scope and reinspection timing.

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We'll handle the entire District of Columbia rental license process for you.

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