How to Legally Rent a Hill Home: BBL, RAD and C of O

Thinking about renting your Capitol Hill rowhouse or condo but feeling lost in the acronyms? You are not alone. DC’s rules can feel like alphabet soup, and a missed step can cost time and money. This guide breaks down the three pillars you need to know, plus a simple checklist and local tips to help you move forward with confidence. Let’s dive in.

DC rental basics: BBL, RAD, C of O

To legally rent a residential property in DC, you typically need three things: a Basic Business License (BBL), Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) registration or an approved exemption, and a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) when the building has two or more units. These are separate agency processes that work together. Review the District’s rental housing licensing overview in the DLCP Rental Housing Business guidance.

Basic Business License (BBL)

What it is

The BBL is DC’s business license for operating rental housing. You apply through the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) under the Rental Housing Business category, which includes one family, two family, or apartment endorsements.

What to prepare

Gather a few core documents before you apply so you do not hit delays:

• Clean Hands Certificate from the Office of Tax and Revenue
• Deed or proof of ownership and a government ID
• Contact info for the responsible property manager or agent
• Any required RAD documentation and, if applicable, a C of O
• Proof you scheduled the required inspection

Inspection and timing

A housing inspection is required to obtain or renew a rental BBL. Schedule and pass the inspection with the Department of Buildings (DOB). For process details and what inspectors look for, review the DOB BBL inspection process.

Fees and terms

DLCP posts current fees by property type and license term. Expect separate application and inspection-related fees, plus penalties for late renewal. Keep payment receipts and approval letters with your records.

If you skip the BBL

Operating without a required license can trigger Notices of Infraction, fines, and other enforcement. It can also block certain eviction filings. See DOB’s summary of enforcement actions and penalties.

RAD registration and RentRegistry

Why registration matters

Every rental unit in DC must be registered with RAD as either rent-stabilized or exempt. If you do not register, your unit is treated as rent-stabilized by default until RAD approves your exemption. Learn the program basics in DHCD’s overview of rent control and RAD.

How to register or claim exemption

You complete a registration or claim an exemption with RAD and provide supporting documents like your deed and, when relevant, your BBL or C of O. DC launched the RentRegistry on June 2, 2025 to centralize filings, with the initial provider filing deadline of August 31, 2025. Read more about the rollout in this overview of the RentRegistry launch and requirements.

Common exemptions

Common exemptions include newer construction, certain small housing providers, and subsidized units. Exemptions are not automatic. Your unit is treated as rent-stabilized until RAD reviews your filing and approves the exemption.

Mistakes to avoid

• Assuming you are exempt without RAD approval
• Skipping registration because you plan a short lease
• Reporting incorrect unit counts or ownership details

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

When you need it

A C of O is required for residential buildings with two or more dwelling units. Most single-family homes do not need a C of O, but confirm your property’s classification and zoning. Review the process on the DOB Certificate of Occupancy page.

How to get it

Apply through DOB’s online system. If you changed the use of the building or added units, you may need additional permits or an amended C of O. Submittals must be complete to avoid review delays.

Zoning and historic checks

Zoning determines whether a structure can be used as a multi-unit property. Converting a rowhouse into multiple units often requires zoning approval and a C of O, so start with the DOB zoning FAQs. Capitol Hill’s historic district status also means exterior work may require review, so build that into your planning.

Step-by-step checklist for Capitol Hill owners

1. Confirm property type and zoning

• Identify if it is single-family, two-family, or multi-unit. If you plan a conversion, check zoning and historic requirements first.

2. Get your documents in order

• Deed, parcel ID, government ID, and a current Clean Hands Certificate.

3. Apply for your BBL

• Choose the correct endorsement and submit your application through DLCP. Schedule the DOB inspection.

4. Register with RAD

• Use RentRegistry to register each unit or claim an exemption. Do not assume exemption until RAD approves it.

5. Secure a C of O if required

• If the building has two or more units, or the use changed, apply with DOB.

6. Pass inspections and meet safety rules

• Ensure working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and correct life-safety features to meet habitability standards.

7. Deliver required disclosures

• Follow RAD and DC tenant disclosure rules at application and lease signing.

8. Maintain renewals and records

• Renew on time, keep proof of inspections and approvals, and update your records when anything changes.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Renting without a BBL or letting it lapse
• Skipping RAD registration or filing it after leasing begins
• Missing a required C of O for two-plus-unit buildings
• Starting a multi-unit conversion without zoning and historic review
• Running short-term rentals from a non-primary residence without the proper license

Renewals and recordkeeping

Put BBL and RAD renewal dates on your calendar and plan ahead for inspections. Update your RentRegistry record whenever ownership, unit count, or contact information changes. For BBL renewal logistics, review DLCP’s BBL renewal overview.

Short-term rentals vs long-term

Short-term and vacation rentals are licensed under a different DLCP program with primary-residence and insurance requirements. If you are considering Airbnb-style hosting, start with DLCP’s rules for operating a short-term rental in DC to confirm eligibility.

Ready to rent your Hill home with confidence? If you want a clear plan, trusted vendor referrals, and a smooth launch to market, reach out to Live In The Dream for local guidance tailored to your property.

FAQs

Do I need a Certificate of Occupancy to rent a Capitol Hill rowhouse?

• If it is a single-family dwelling, a C of O is usually not required. If you create two or more units, you will need a C of O and may need zoning approvals.

Is my DC rental subject to rent control?

• Units are treated as rent-stabilized by default unless RAD approves an exemption. Many exemptions exist, but you must file and receive approval.

What happens if I rent without a BBL or RAD registration?

• You risk fines, enforcement actions, and potential dismissal of certain eviction filings. Get licensed and registered as soon as possible.

Can I use my property for Airbnb instead of a long-term lease?

• Yes, but short-term rentals have a separate license and primary-residence rules. Investment properties and some ownership types are restricted.