Scored 9/10 on whether it helps or hurts everyday people.
The Fees & Surprise Bill
DC bill protects renters from hidden fees and surprise debt
Fair Housing Practices Amendment Act of 2025
Good for everyday people ·
This bill would stop landlords from charging you for shared building power and give you more time to know about any money you owe after moving out.
Our take
What we think, in plain words.
This bill is good for regular people because it would stop landlords from adding extra charges for shared building utilities, like lights in hallways. It would also make sure you get clear notice about any money you still owe after moving out, before debt collectors get involved. This gives you time to understand the charges or pay what's due. Since this bill has passed both parts of the government and is now waiting for the Mayor's signature, it is a good time to tell the Mayor what you think.
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The facts
What the bill actually says, no spin.
- This bill would stop housing providers from charging tenants for utility costs in common areas.
- It would require housing providers to tell tenants about any unpaid money within 45 days after they move out.
- It would also require providers to prove the tenant got this notice at least 60 days before sending the unpaid amount to a debt collector.
How they voted
The actual floor vote, and who broke from their own party.
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In the news
Scanning the news for this bill…
Headlines gathered from across the news, starting points to explore, not endorsements. Always read the official text before acting.
Sources
Read it yourself: the official bill and records.
This bill is in the Washington, D.C. Bill Book 2026
The best and worst Washington, D.C. bills of 2026, one page each — our take on the left, the bill on the right, and room for your notes. No email needed.
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