Transparent Rates and Utility Expenses Amendment Act of 2026

The Transparent Rates and Utility Expenses (TRUE) Amendment Act of 2026 requires Washington D.C. housing providers to clearly itemize all utility charges - such as electricity, gas, water, and sewage - before tenants apply for a rental unit and throughout their tenancy. It mandates that providers disclose how charges are calculated (e.g., based on square footage or occupancy), provide contact details for third-party billers, and include these details in lease agreements. If providers fail to disclose these details, utility charges become unenforceable, and tenants gain the right to "redeem" overdue utility payments before facing eviction - mirroring existing rent redemption protections. This bill directly affects renters and landlords in D.C. by reducing hidden costs and increasing transparency around housing expenses.