The DC Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) has launched a new campaign to encourage college students living off-campus in the District to ensure their housing is healthy and safe.

In an effort to connect to students where they are, DCRA has created the new site thisshouldbeillegal.com to encourage a conversation with students and let them know they are not alone when dealing with landlords. Too often college students are victims of illegal landlords trying to make a quick buck at your expense. At thisshouldbeillegal.com, you can search to see if your landlord is licensed, request a housing inspection, get free smoke detectors, and more.

As a 29 year veteran of the fire service who know specializes in fire investigation and code enforcement, I am encouraged by the efforts of this site to promote fire safety in off campus housing. Fires and fire deaths CAN be prevented. Stay safe. -- Rob Farley, via Facebook

Look Up Your Landlord Here

The DC Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) allows renters to see if their landlord is licensed - either by address or property owner.

• Start Your Search Here
• Need Help? See Housing Type Definitions before you begin

We're On Facebook

DCRA is also on Facebook. Join our Facebook Group and Facebook Fan Page and join in the discussion, post photos, videos or find an answer to your issues.

Note: To Access the Facebook group, you need to already be signed into your Facebook Account.

We're on Twitter

DCRA is also on Twitter. So you can drop us a line, vent, or bring up any issue or idea you may have at anytime. You will also receive regular helpful updates on how to make sure you are safe.

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