The Housing Investment Protection Act of 2026 seeks to enhance housing laws in the District of Columbia by providing better support for tenants, protecting housing investments, and streamlining the court process. Key provisions include empowering the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) to assist tenants during unit repairs, clarifying housing providers' rights to access units for repairs, and increasing the Local Rental Supplement Program's project-based vouchers from 30% to 50% to boost affordable housing availability. The bill also refines the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA) by clarifying tenant definitions and improving transaction enforceability, while allowing the Mayor to expedite the purchase of newer buildings to preserve affordable units.

Additionally, the Rental Amendment Act of 2026 introduces significant amendments to existing housing laws, including the requirement for housing providers to give tenants at least 10 days' notice before filing for eviction due to nonpayment of rent, with initial court hearings for eviction cases to be held within 60 days. The bill clarifies definitions related to dangerous crimes and allows tenants to defend against eviction if they were victims of such crimes or acted in self-defense. It also updates the methods of serving legal documents, allowing electronic communication with tenant consent, and mandates that tenants receive a Notice of Transfer before any sale or transfer of property. Overall, these amendments aim to strengthen tenant rights, improve housing stability, and ensure compliance with housing regulations while preserving affordable housing in the District.