D.C. Code tit. 42 § 42-3251
Definitions.
Operative Text
For the purposes of this chapter, the term: (1) “Dwelling unit” means any habitable room or group of habitable rooms located within a residential building and forming a single unit which is used or intended to be used for living, sleeping, and the preparation and eating of meals; including a bachelor apartment. (2) “Multiple Dwelling” means any residential building containing 3 or more dwelling units, 3 or more rooming units, or any combination of dwelling or rooming units totaling 3 or more. (3) “Owner” means any individual, corporation, association, or partnership listed as the legal title holder of record and any owners’ association legally incorporated in accordance with Chapter 9 of Title 29 or Chapter 19 of this title that is the recognized representative of the households in a condominium or cooperative housing building. (4) “WASA” means the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority established by § 34-2202.02 .
D.C. Code § 42-3251 et seq. opens by establishing the precise meanings of four key terms used throughout the chapter: 'Dwelling unit,' 'Multiple Dwelling,' 'Owner,' and 'WASA.' A dwelling unit covers any habitable room or group of rooms used for living purposes, including bachelor apartments. A multiple dwelling is any residential building with three or more such units or rooming units in any combination, and 'Owner' encompasses individuals, corporations, associations, partnerships, and recognized condominium or cooperative associations holding legal title.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to D.C. Code § 42-3251 et seq. should be aware that the chapter's obligations apply based on how these defined terms classify their property. A building with three or more dwelling or rooming units qualifies as a 'Multiple Dwelling,' which may trigger specific duties under the chapter. Entities such as condominium associations or cooperative housing boards that serve as recognized representatives of households are also captured under the definition of 'Owner' and should understand that obligations may extend to them accordingly.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Tenants living in a habitable room or group of rooms used for living, sleeping, and meal preparation are residing in a 'Dwelling unit' as defined under D.C. Code § 42-3251 et seq., which means the protections and requirements of this chapter may apply to their home. If a building contains three or more such units, it qualifies as a 'Multiple Dwelling,' potentially broadening the scope of applicable rules. Tenants who believe their housing situation falls within these definitions and who have concerns about compliance may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or the District of Columbia's relevant housing agencies to understand what remedies or complaint processes may be available.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 13, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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