(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, Mayor Bowser announced the appointment of Lauren Pair as the DC Rent Administrator. The Rent Administrator provides leadership and direction as a recognized technical authority in the District of Columbia on issues of rent control, in the interpretation of associated policies and legislation, and in the development and coordination of special projects and programs designed to monitor, assess, or improve rent control processes in Washington, DC. The position is located in the Housing Regulations Administration (HRA) at the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
“As we work toward building a more inclusive Washington, DC, Lauren will play a critical role in ensuring that DC’s rent-controlled apartments are managed in a fair, equitable and transparent manner,” said Mayor Bowser. “At DHCD, Lauren has proven to be a strong leader who utilizes a balanced and fair decision-making process, and I am confident she will serve the residents of DC well as Rent Administrator.”
Pair is an accomplished real estate and housing attorney and manager with extensive experience administering regulatory housing programs. She most recently served as the Rental Conversion and Sale Administrator for DHCD. She has substantial expertise in compliance, enforcement, dispute adjudication and claim determinations, drafting regulations and legislation, devising policy and procedures, and preparing policy and position recommendations.
The Rent Administrator position is responsible for carrying out the Rent Stabilization Program established under DC Official Code, Sect. 42-3501 et. seq. (2001) and 14 DCMR Chapters 38-43 (1991), as amended, according to rules and procedures established by the Rental Housing Commission and the rules and procedures established by the Rental Housing Act of 1985, as amended.
“Lauren is the perfect nominee for the Rent Administrator role. Lauren’s intricate understanding of the housing providers’ and the tenants’ positions will guide her as she transitions from one critical leadership role in DHCD to another,” said Director of the Department of Housing and Community Development Polly Donaldson.
The Housing Regulation Administration (HRA) administers residential housing regulations relating to condominium and cooperative conversions, rent adjustment procedures, licensing and other related matters. It is composed of two divisions, the Rental Accommodation Division (RAD) and the Rental Conversion and Sales Division (CASD), and manages the DHCD Housing Resource Center.
“It is an honor to be considered for the position of Rent Administrator. The issue of rent control in our city is of great importance as we ensure that the District has quality affordable housing opportunities for our residents. I look forward to serving the city’s residents in this new role and I appreciate the Mayor’s faith in my ability to serve,” said Lauren Pair, nominee for Rent Administrator.
Pair received a Bachelor of Arts from Tufts University and a Master in Public Administration and a Juris Doctor from American University. She is a Ward 4 resident.