Lifesaving Intervention Empowering Neighborhoods (LIEN) Act of 2026

The LIEN Act of 2026 allows DC's Department of Buildings (DOB) to place liens on properties when landlords fail to fix serious, documented housing violations after city orders. It directly affects property owners with chronic uncorrected violations (like pest infestations, mold, or unsafe wiring) that result in unpaid fines or unresolved health/safety hazards. Key provisions include DOB recording liens for uncured Class 1 violations, unpaid civil penalties after final orders, or unaddressed emergency notices - attaching these liens to the property like a tax lien to prevent sales or refinancing until repairs are made. The bill also enables DOB to bill owners for costs of emergency repairs (special assessments) if they ignore violation notices.