The District of Columbia is moving to bolster tenant protections with the introduction of the STRONG Homes Amendment Act of 2025. Sponsored by Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb and Councilmember Robert White, the legislation aims to enhance the existing Tenant Receivership Act. This amendment is designed to empower the Office of the Attorney General to take more decisive action against negligent landlords and address urgent housing issues affecting residents living in unsafe conditions.
In a statement highlighting the need for reform, Schwalb noted, “My office receives dozens of complaints every year about Washingtonians being forced to live in unsafe, unhealthy, illegal conditions.” He emphasized that the current framework is inadequate for addressing these persistent problems. The proposed amendment seeks to rectify these shortcomings by enabling authorities to respond swiftly to situations where tenants’ safety is jeopardized.
Councilmember White echoed these concerns, stating, “Too many families in our city are still boiling water on stoves for heat, sleeping under tarps because the roof leaks every time it rains, or putting their kids to bed in rooms filled with mold.” This stark reality underscores the urgency behind the STRONG Homes Amendment.
The legislation introduces several key provisions aimed at improving tenant safety and welfare. It permits the D.C. Attorney General’s Office to allocate funds for emergency repairs, cover temporary relocations, and pay receivers’ fees for properties deemed unsafe. Additionally, the act grants courts the authority to approve property sales, mandates that new owners adhere to housing codes and reconstruction plans, and prevents rent increases that could burden tenants during repair processes.
Moreover, the amendment seeks to maintain receiverships even after properties change hands, ensuring that ongoing compliance with housing standards is upheld. It also includes measures to dissolve limited liability companies (LLCs) and limited partnerships (LPs) that own multiple rental properties, reinforcing adherence to housing laws.
The introduction of the STRONG Homes Amendment Act of 2025 represents a significant step towards improving housing conditions in Washington, D.C. By equipping the Office of the Attorney General with enhanced authority, the city aims to safeguard the rights and well-being of its residents, particularly those vulnerable to exploitative housing practices. As the legislative process unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring that all D.C. residents have access to safe and healthy living conditions.
