If you've recently received a notice or email about the DC Rent Registry, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this important filing requirement and how RentJiffy can help you stay compliant.
What is the Rent Registry?
The Rent Registry is a mandatory one-time filing requirement for all residential rental properties in Washington, D.C., administered by the Department of Buildings (DOB) and coordinated with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
The Registry serves to maintain an accurate record of all rental housing in the District, identify which properties are subject to rent control versus those that are exempt (and on what grounds), and track ownership, tenancy, and rental status to inform policy and enforcement efforts.
Important Note: If you've previously registered for rent control or filed for exemption from rent control and this process seems familiar, that's because it essentially is the same information. DC has transitioned to an electronic system and requires all landlords to register again through this new platform to maintain compliance. Yes, it's redundant, but it's required.
Who is required to file?
All landlords who hold a Basic Business License (BBL) for residential rental housing must complete the Rent Registry filing. This requirement applies regardless of whether your property is currently rented or vacant, whether it's rent-controlled or exempt, or what type of property you own—whether it's a single-family home, condo, apartment, or multi-unit building.
The only exception is if you hold only a Short-Term Rental License. In that case, you are not required to file the Rent Registry.
When is the Rent Registry due?
The filing deadline is November 29, 2025 for all landlords. This is a one-time filing requirement, not an annual obligation.
What information is required?
To complete your Rent Registry filing, you'll need to provide several categories of information:
General Property Information You'll need your property's complete address and your Basic Business License number.
Ownership Information This includes the owner's name and contact information, plus Registered Agent details if applicable.
Rental Use Details The filing requires information about whether the property is currently rented, the date the rental began or is expected to begin, whether the unit is subject to rent control, and if exempt from rent control, the specific basis for that exemption. You'll also need to indicate tenant occupancy status, whether there's a written lease and its duration, and the current monthly rent amount if applicable.
For information you should have handy when you begin the application, please review our support article: What information will I need in advance to complete the Rent Registry filing?
What if your property is exempt from rent control?
Even if your property is exempt from rent control, you still need to file the Rent Registry. During the filing process, make sure to complete the Rent Control Exemption Qualification Survey. It will help you determine what exemptions you may qualify for. Keep in mind for some exemptions, additional documentation may be needed. The system will let you know should that be the case.
Consequences of not filing
Failure to file the Rent Registry by the November 29, 2025 deadline can result in serious consequences including fines and penalties from the District, suspension or delay of your rental license renewal, and for rent-controlled properties, ineligibility to raise rent.
Impact on rent-controlled properties
If your property is subject to rent control, completing the Rent Registry filing is now a prerequisite before you can register a rent increase. This makes timely filing especially critical for rent-controlled properties.
Legal and tax considerations
While RentJiffy handles the filing process and ensures your forms are submitted properly, we cannot provide legal or tax advice. For questions about legal or tax implications related to the Rent Registry, please consult your tax professional or CPA, the Business Tax Division at the Office of Tax and Revenue, or the Rental Accommodations Division at DHCD.
Getting started with RentJiffy
Ready to complete your Rent Registry filing before the November 29, 2025 deadline? Check out our article "How Do I Start My Rent Registry Filing With DC?" for detailed instructions on how to begin the process.