April 15, 2002

(Washington, DC) In a move to help bridge the communication gap between renters and regulators, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) met with representatives recently of tenants in rental housing.

DCRA Director David A. Clark promised DCRA would take immediate action to address some of the concerns of tenants, including better access to information. "Knowing the concerns of the tenants, along with using their valuable suggestions will enable us to make changes quickly to better meet their needs."

The seven tenant representatives at the meeting praised Mr. Clark and his effort to "fix" the system. They encouraged DCRA to begin with providing tenants with better access to information. Mr. Clark informed the group of improvements in customer service: DCRA representatives attend meetings and other community functions to hear concerns and provide information. He also explained the computerized customer complaint system that allows managers to track concerns. "We are already taking steps to improve services but we're not finished yet, " he said.

One of the key changes coming soon to DCRA is a new rental housing administrator. The hiring process for this position is in the final stage. The new administrator is expected to be on board within 30 days. "I know that the rental housing administration needs improvement and I'm here to make that happen," said Mr. Clark.

Joan Ellis Tillman of The Rittenhouse Apartments said that tenants could help DCRA fix the system. She would like to see tenants work with housing inspectors to identify problem areas in buildings.

Working with tenants to educate them about rental housing laws and regulations is a step in the right direction for DCRA. Mr. Clark said it's a necessary step that will help DCRA be more customer friendly. "For DCRA it's important that the system work for all of our customers."