D.C. Code tit. 42 § 42-3405.05
Investigations.
Operative Text
(a) The Mayor may make necessary public or private investigations in accordance with law within or without of the District of Columbia to determine compliance with the requirements of this chapter or to determine whether any person has violated or is about to violate this chapter or any rule or order hereunder, or to aid in the enforcement of this chapter or in the prescribing of rules and forms hereunder. (b) For the purpose of any investigation under this chapter, the Mayor or any officer designated by rule may administer oaths or affirmations, subpoena witnesses and compel their attendance, take evidence, and require the production of any matter which is relevant to the investigation, including the existence, description, nature, custody, condition, and location of any books, documents or other tangible things and the identity and location of persons having knowledge or relevant facts or any other matter reasonably calculated to lead to the discovery of material evidence. (c) Upon failure to obey a subpoena or to answer questions propounded by the investigating officer and upon reasonable notice to all persons affected thereby, the Mayor may apply to the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for an order compelling compliance.
Under D.C. Code § 42-3401.01 et seq. § 42-3405.05, the Mayor of the District of Columbia is authorized to conduct investigations—both public and private—to determine whether any person or entity is complying with, has violated, or is about to violate the District's tenant opportunity to purchase and housing laws. As part of these investigations, designated officials may administer oaths, subpoena witnesses, compel testimony, and require the production of relevant documents or other tangible evidence. If a subpoena or questioning is not obeyed, the Mayor may seek a court order from the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to compel compliance.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to D.C. Code § 42-3401.01 et seq. § 42-3405.05 should be aware that the Mayor's office holds broad investigative authority to examine records, compel testimony, and subpoena documents related to compliance with District housing laws. Operators who maintain thorough, organized records of transactions, notices, and tenant communications are generally better positioned to respond to any official inquiry. Failure to comply with a lawfully issued subpoena under this provision can result in the Mayor seeking a Superior Court order to compel that compliance.
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. § 42-3405.05 gives the Mayor investigative powers that can be used to look into potential violations of District housing law, which may include situations affecting tenants' rights. Tenants who believe a landlord is violating the chapter's requirements can report concerns to the Mayor's office, which has the authority to investigate, gather evidence, and compel witnesses to cooperate. Tenant-rights organizations in the District can help individuals understand how this investigative process works and what options may be available when a violation is suspected.
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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