This article applies only to license renewal applications. If you are looking for information about the next steps after submitting an application for a new rental property license, please refer to this article: What Are the Next Steps After I Submit My Application? (New License Only)
Once you’ve submitted your rental housing license renewal application through RentJiffy, several steps take place before your license is issued. Below is a breakdown of what to expect and what you may need to do to ensure a smooth process.
1. Application Review and Processing
After submission, the RentJiffy team will review your application for completeness. If any information is missing or requires clarification, we will contact you via email. To avoid delays, be sure to monitor your inbox and respond promptly.
2. Application Processing Timeline
The DC Government typically takes 2-4 weeks to process renewal applications.
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No need to worry if your renewal license is issued after your current license expires—the newly issued license will have a start date beginning the day after your previous license expires to ensure continuous coverage.
3. Additional Information Requests from DC Government
Although rare, DC Government agencies may request additional documentation or clarification. If this happens, RentJiffy will notify you via email. Please regularly check your inbox, as some requests may require action on your part to prevent delays.
4. Clean Hands Compliance
Before issuing your license, the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) will verify your compliance with the Clean Hands mandate. By law, a license cannot be issued if you are found to be non-compliant.
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If we are notified that you are non-compliant, we will inform you immediately.
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You must resolve any outstanding issues before DLCP can issue your license.
Check Your Clean Hands Status
We strongly recommend logging into MyTax.DC.gov to check your Clean Hands status. Doing this early allows you the most time to resolve any issues before they cause licensing delays.
Key Deadlines & Penalties
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If you do not achieve Clean Hands compliance before your license expires, DC will impose a $250 late penalty on your application.
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If you remain non-compliant 30 days after expiration, an additional $250 penalty will be assessed.
IMPORTANT DEADLINE NOTICE
If you are found non-compliant with the Clean Hands mandate, you must notify us by 12:00 PM (noon), two business days before your license expiration date or by the 28th day after expiration once you have achieved compliance. This ensures RentJiffy has enough time to process or rerun your application and help you avoid penalties. Failure to notify us within this timeframe may result in missed deadlines, and we cannot guarantee penalty avoidance.
What Is the Clean Hands Mandate?
The Clean Hands mandate states that you cannot owe more than $100 to the Government of the District of Columbia or have any outstanding tax returns, among other compliance requirements. Ensuring compliance with this mandate is essential to obtaining and maintaining your rental license.
5. License Issuance and Confirmation
Once all requirements are met, your license will be issued. You will receive a confirmation email from us with your newly issued license attached.
How to Ensure a Smooth Process
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Check Your Email Frequently – Respond promptly to any RentJiffy or DC Government requests.
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Verify Business Standing – If applying under a business entity, ensure it is in good standing.
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Address Any Requests Quickly – Any delays in submitting additional documentation can extend the process.