Newsletter July 2025
In This Issue:
July 1 Updates: New DC Laws Every Landlord Should Know
ERAP Reform: What Landlords Need to Prepare For
Pet-Friendly Rentals: Pet Fee Cap & Restrictions
Maintenance Tips for Peak Summer Rentals
Member Spotlight: Housekeeping & Vendor Discounts
DCHA Revitalization: Impact on Affordable Housing
Get Involved: Mentorship, Volunteering & Events
📜 July 1 Updates: New DC Laws You Can’t Ignore
On July 1, Washington, DC increased the minimum wage for non‑tipped workers to $17.95/hr, and for tipped workers, the base wage rose to $12/hr
⚖️ ERAP Reform: What Landlords Need to Know
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program reforms have now been made permanent, limiting eviction delays to just one per case and giving judges authority based on actual financial coverage.
What this means for you:
Evictions will move more swiftly if tenants don’t qualify.
Courts now demand proof of ERAP eligibility or payment plans—ensure your documentation is complete and up to date.
🐾 Pet Policy Changes Coming: Start Planning Now
Under DC’s Pets in Housing Amendment Act:
Monthly pet fees capped at 1% of rent.
Security deposits capped at 15% of rent.
Breed/size restrictions can no longer be applied from October 1, 2026.
Takeaway: Update your lease addenda and fee structures ahead of October 2025.
🛠️ Summer Maintenance Checklist
Now’s the perfect time to refresh your properties for peak season:
HVAC checks to avoid sweltering tenant complaints
Roof & gutter inspections before late‑summer storms
Pest control treatment, especially for ants, termites, and rodents
Pressure‑wash exterior spaces to maintain curb appeal
Begin fall lease renewal outreach—beat the busy season!
🧼 Member Spotlight: Housekeeping Services & Vendor Discounts
Our member-only cleaning services include discounted rates, flexible scheduling, and quality assurance.
Plus: Special pricing on renovations, dumpster rental, junk hauling, and more. Reach out via the member portal to request quotes or schedule services.
🏘️ DCHA Revitalization Plan: A Boost for Affordable Housing
The DC Housing Authority just unveiled a major plan to renovate 3,500 affordable housing units with $700 million in new bonds.
Landlords with voucher programs or offering affordable units can expect improvements in building habitability and potentially faster turnaround times.
📅 Save the Dates:
Mid-July: Fall Conference early bird registration opens
September: Legal panel on ERAP enforcement & eviction best practices
October 20–21: Fall 2025 Landlord Conference at National Harbor
🔗 Member Resources to Explore:
Updated Lease Templates (now includes Pet Fee and Minimum Wage Addenda)
Legal support: tenant mediation, eviction process guidance
Vendor discounts: housekeeping, dumpsters, professional services
SPONSORS
💬 Stay Connected
Follow us for real-time updates, tips, and event announcements:
📱 Instagram: @DC.Landlord
📘 Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/dclandlordassociation/
𝕏: @DCLandlord
🌐 Website: www.dclandlord.org
Thank you for being an essential part of our landlord community! Stay vigilant, stay proactive—and let’s finish the summer strong.
— DC Landlord Association Team