How do I rent a basement apartment in DC?

How do I rent a basement apartment in DC?

To legally rent out your basement apartment in DC, you’ll need two things:

1. Basic Business License (BBL). This is a document that basically ensures the safety of both you and your renter by giving you the right to do business (yes, even if you’re just operating as a landlord in your own home!).
2. Certificate of Occupancy.

What qualifies as a bedroom in DC?

Bedroom Building Codes The building codes that apply to homes in Washington, DC, are the same as the one used in the U.S.: Size – Single-occupancy bedrooms should have at least 70 square feet of floor space, with a minimum of 7 feet in one direction. At least half of the ceiling must be at least seven feet tall.

Can you get sick from living in a basement?

Can you get sick from living in a basement? Yes, you can get sick from living in a basement due to stagnant airflow and the buildup of moisture. The air quality in your typical basements is deficient, which can cause you to become anywhere from slightly to gravely ill.

How can I make my basement safe to live?

Follow a few tips to make your basement lifestyle safer.

1. Make Sure the Apartment Is Up to Code. Any honest landlord and apartment complex owner will make sure that basement apartments are up to code.
2. Test for Mold and Gas.
3. Have an Escape Plan During Fire and Flooding.
4. Have a Plan to Prevent and Deal with Burglary.

Do houses in Washington DC have basements?

English basements are often found in many major older cities such as New York, or Washington DC. Often, English basements can be found in older properties such as brownstones or townhouses. In the past, property owners built servants quarters in their basements.

Do DC homes have basements?

English basements can be found throughout the District and are quite prevalent in the Dupont Circle, Logan Circle and Kalorama neighborhoods which tend to have larger row houses than other DC neighborhoods.