Streamlining Rental Housing Management: Introducing the RentRegistry
The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in Washington, D.C., is set
to revolutionize the administration of the Rental Housing Act of 1985 with the introduction of
the RentRegistry. This innovative system aims to modernize the way rental housing data is
managed, making it easier for housing providers and renters alike to comply with regulations and
access vital information. Here’s a comprehensive look at what the RentRegistry entails and how
you can prepare for its implementation.
The Need for Modernization
For the past 40 years, the Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) has managed the Rental
Housing Act through a paper-based system. This method has proven to be administratively
burdensome, time-consuming, and inefficient. The inability to track properties, rental units, and
market trends has hindered data-driven policy and legislative development. Recognizing these
challenges, the City Council amended the Rental Housing Act in 2015, mandating the creation of
the RentRegistry.
What is the RentRegistry?
The RentRegistry is a real-time, searchable database designed to streamline the operations of the
RAD. It will provide comprehensive data about buildings, base rents, services and facilities, rent
adjustments, unit features, and vacancy status. This system will replace the outdated paper forms,
making it easier to submit filings and access information. The RentRegistry is set to be released
for public use on June 2, 2025, and will significantly enhance the convenience and efficiency of
rental housing management.
Key Features and Benefits
- Real-Time Data Access: The RentRegistry will offer real-time access to rental housing data, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions based on up-to-date information.
- Streamlined Operations: By moving to an online system, the RentRegistry will reduce the administrative burden on both the RAD and housing providers, allowing for more efficient management of rental housing data.
- Enhanced Compliance: The system will ensure that all housing providers comply with the Rental Housing Act by requiring re-registration of rental accommodations within 90 days of the RentRegistry’s launch.
- Data-Driven Policy Making: The comprehensive data collected through the RentRegistry will support the development of data-driven policies and legislative changes, improving the overall rental housing market in the District.
Preparing for the RentRegistry
To ensure a smooth transition to the new system, housing providers must prepare in advance.
Here are the key steps to get ready for the RentRegistry:
- Required Documents: You still need the Basic Business License (BBL), Certificate of Occupancy (COO), and the deed.
- New Required Information: You will need a three-year rent history for all units that are subject to rent stabilization, the name, email address of the current tenant, and phone number (which are protected from public viewing). A three-year history is not required for exempt units.
- Grid Template: Your data will be inserted into a Grid Template to organize information for multiple rental units showing amenities and various utilities and their cost if not included in the base rent.
- Rate of Return Calculation: If you have rent-stabilized rental accommodations, you will need to calculate your Rate of Return (ROR).
Conclusion
The RentRegistry represents a significant step forward in the management of rental housing data
in Washington, D.C. By transitioning to an online system, the DHCD aims to improve
efficiency, enhance compliance, and support data-driven policy making. Housing providers are
encouraged to prepare in advance to ensure a smooth transition and take full advantage of the
benefits offered by the RentRegistry.
Act Now! Any new rental property (or properties under new ownership) requires you file with
RAD within 30 days. If you must initially file before June 2nd, you must file again electronically
after June 2nd.
For more information and updates, visit the DHCD’s RentRegistry webpage or contact the RAD
team at raddatabase.inquiries@dc.gov.
Greenstein DeLorme & Luchs is ready to help you re-register your rental units or re-claim
any exemptions. Every rental unit must be re-registered between June 2, 2025 and August
29, 2025 and compliance is mandatory. If you would like GDL to assist you with this filing,
please contact us soon. Slots will fill up quickly.
Please contact GDL at 202-452-1400 or email us at info@gdllaw.com.
