Are tenants responsible for repairs to the rental property?
Tenants in the District of Columbia are responsible for certain repairs to a rental property. According to landlord and tenant law in the District of Columbia, tenants are responsible for repairs that they, a member of their household, or their guest caused. Tenants are also responsible for repairing damage to the rental property that results from ordinary wear and tear, such as minor cracks in walls or holes in the carpet. Tenants are also obligated to contact their landlords in a timely manner if they notice damages or repairs that need to be done to the rental unit. The landlord is generally responsible for larger repairs or renovations that are needed to keep the rental property livable. This includes work needed to maintain essential services, such as heat and air conditioning, plumbing, hot water, and electricity. Additionally, landlords must take care of any structural issues, such as an unstable foundation or a leaky roof. Tenants in the District of Columbia also have the right to ask the landlord to make repairs if the rental unit does not meet local health or safety standards. If the landlord does not make the necessary repairs after the tenant has requested them, the tenant may be able to withhold rent until the work is done. It is important for tenants to know their rights and to communicate any issues with their landlords in a timely manner.
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