Anyone considering renting his or her home in the District of Columbia must have a Basic Business License (BBL).  As part of the BBL process, a home will be inspected to ensure compliance with the District’s safety regulations.  Having a BBL also triggers the income tax reporting process, which is a requirement of the District.  Those homeowners who do not comply are subject to severe fines.

The close proximity of row houses in Burleith makes it especially important for homes to have proper egress, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, among other safety features.  Securing a BBL helps insure that tenants are not put at risk.

Property owners can apply for a Baisc Business License by clicking on the following link:

        Apply for a Business License

Tennants or neighbors can check to see the status of a property (i.e. if the homeowner has received a Basic Business License from the District) by clicking on the following link:

        Basic Business License Status