Living off campus is a much-anticipated milestone for many Georgetown students. Finding an affordable residence that is not lightyears from the front gates, however, can easily become a nightmare for rising juniors and seniors.After successfully house-hunting, students – who often have little to no experience in negotiating contracts – may face roadblocks in hashing out the details with their prospective landlord. Even after they move in, students with apathetic landlords can become entangled in a battle of wills over repairs and general maintenance issues. It is for this reason that the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs’ recent decision to enforce existing landlord license laws will be a boon for off-campus residents. Throwing the weight of DCRA regulations behind students as they interact with unresponsive landlords will significantly reduce the stresses associated with off-campus living.As reported last week (“DCRA Enforces Landlord Regulations,” The Hoya, Jan. 29, 2010, A1), the DCRA notified over 100 landlords that their licenses appeared to be missing or incomplete and gave them a 10-business day window to apply for a new license, furnish an existing one or allow inspectors to survey the property.At first glance, the announcement seems to be somewhat of an anti-climactic statement that landlords should follow the law. In reality, however, there are many landlords that operate without licenses – as the number of letters sent out by the DCRA indicates. A valid license offers proof that the building is in sound working order and indicates that the owner is both responsible and responsive. Inexperienced student tenants may not have the know-how to ask to see a license before signing a rental agreement. Moreover, many students may not know that they are entitled to a free property inspection. The new initiative by the DCRA not only clarifies both of those points, but encourages residents to take advantage of the inspection service.For this reason, the initiative ought to be seen as a victory for Georgetown students. If landlords know that the DCRA will be closely monitoring their business, they will be more likely to act on student requests for repairs. It is the responsibility of the landlord – not the renter – to ensure the upkeep of his or her properties. Students ought to be cognizant of their rights as tenants and capitalize on the DCRA’s most recent proactive measure. There is no reason for off-campus students to endure leaky sinks or dysfunctional heaters any longer than is necessary.*To send a letter to the editor on a recent campus issue or Hoya story or a viewpoint on any topic, contact opinionthehoya.com. Letters should not exceed 300 words, and viewpoints should be between 600 to 800 words.*”