D.C. Code tit. 8 § 8-231.19
Common law unaffected.
Operative Text
The remedies under this subchapter do not supplant rights and remedies that may be available against property owners and other liable parties under the common law.
D.C. Code § 8-231.01 et seq. § 8-231.19 establishes that the statutory remedies created by this subchapter exist alongside, rather than in place of, any common-law rights and remedies that may apply to property owners or other responsible parties. In other words, a person is not limited to the remedies spelled out in the subchapter simply because those remedies exist. Common-law claims—such as negligence or nuisance—remain available as separate legal avenues.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under D.C. Code § 8-231.01 et seq. § 8-231.19 should be aware that compliance with the subchapter's specific requirements does not necessarily shield them from liability under common-law theories. Compliant operators generally document their lead-hazard reduction efforts thoroughly, recognizing that records may be relevant in any proceeding—statutory or common-law. Understanding that multiple legal frameworks can apply simultaneously is a key aspect of responsible property management in the District.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under D.C. Code § 8-231.01 et seq. § 8-231.19, tenants retain any common-law rights they may have against property owners or other liable parties, even when the subchapter's own remedies are also available. This means that pursuing a statutory remedy under the subchapter does not necessarily foreclose other legal options that might exist under general principles of law. Tenants who believe they have been harmed may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider to understand the full range of potential remedies available to them.
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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