Tenant hot line

The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs shall provide for the continuation of a tenant hot line. The primary purpose of the tenant hot line is to provide assistance to low- and moderate-income tenants. To carry out this purpose, the functions and responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) Answering rent control procedural questions, and directing tenants toward possible courses of action in resolving problems; (2) Providing advice on housing regulation violations; (3) Explaining rent increases; (4) Providing guidance on emergency shelter; (5) Providing guidance on the Tenant Assistance Program; (6) Providing guidance in resolving problems involving water, heating, repairs, and other matters; (7) Providing advice on possible action in response to allegations of discrimination, harassment, or neglect by housing providers; (8) Answering preliminary questions about remedies through the courts; (9) Providing guidance when tenants are faced with eviction; and (10) Providing guidance on other tenant problems.