D.C. Code tit. 42 § 42-3404.01a
Definitions.
Operative Text
For purposes of this subchapter , the term: (1) "Department" means the Department of Housing and Community Development, or any successor agency. (2) "Owner" means: (A) Any person, any one of a number of persons, or any entity in whom is vested all or any part of the beneficial ownership, dominion, or title of a housing accommodation; or (B) The committee, conservator, or legal guardian of a person described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph who is non compos mentis, a minor child, or otherwise under a disability. (3) "Qualified Purchaser" means any person certified by the Mayor pursuant to § 42-3404.02d , or an agency or instrumentality of the District.". (4) (A) "Tenant" means any person or persons who, under the terms of a current or expired written lease or other rental agreement, are entitled to occupy the housing accommodation and are liable to the owner for the payment of rent. (B) Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to limit the definition of "tenant" for purposes of any other law.". (5) Not Funded.
D.C. Code § 42-3401.01 et seq. § 42-3404.01a establishes the key definitions that govern the tenant opportunity to purchase subchapter in the District of Columbia. It identifies who qualifies as an 'Owner,' 'Tenant,' and 'Qualified Purchaser,' and designates the Department of Housing and Community Development as the relevant agency. These definitions set the scope of who is covered by the subchapter's protections and obligations.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under D.C. Code § 42-3401.01 et seq. § 42-3404.01a, the term 'Owner' is defined broadly to include any person or entity holding all or part of the beneficial ownership or title to a housing accommodation, as well as legal guardians or conservators acting on behalf of an owner under a disability. Property owners and managers operating in the District of Columbia generally ensure they understand whether they fall within this definition, since it determines whether the subchapter's requirements apply to them. The Department of Housing and Community Development is the designated agency overseeing matters arising under this subchapter.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
D.C. Code § 42-3401.01 et seq. § 42-3404.01a defines 'Tenant' as any person entitled to occupy a housing accommodation under a current or expired written lease or rental agreement who is liable for rent, and it explicitly states that this definition does not limit how 'tenant' is defined under other laws. This means tenants may retain protections under other D.C. statutes even if a question arises about their status under this subchapter. Tenants who have questions about whether they qualify under this definition may consult the Department of Housing and Community Development or a local tenant-rights organization for general information.
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.
Effective Timeline
References In
Rules and statutes that cite this regulation