D.C. Mun. Regs. tit. 14 § 701
All structures located on a premises including, but not limited to, accessory structures (such as walls, garages, fences, and sheds) shall be maintained in a sanitary and structurally sound condition and in good repair.
All walkways on private property shall be maintained in good repair, free of holes and safe for walking purposes.
Material used in making any repair shall be of a quality and kind suitable for the purpose for which it is used, and of a kind normally used by a good mechanic in the appropriate trade. Each repair shall be done in a workmanlike manner.
Construction details for alterations, additions or other work done as a result of any standard established in this subtitle shall be accomplished under permit and in the manner provided in the Building Code, Electrical Code, Plumbing Code, or other building regulations of the District of Columbia, as applicable.
D.C. Mun. Regs. Tit. 14, § 701