economy
DC’s Historic Preservation Review Board is making housing unaffordable
The iron stairs on many Capitol Hill residences may not have a functional use, but thanks to the city’s Historic Preservation Office, homeowners not only can’t remove them, but they must replace them if they improve their property, thus driving up construction costs, and housing costs, for everyone.
TL;DR
- The Historic Preservation Office (HPO) in D.C. requires approval for all exterior changes to historic properties before a building permit can be acquired.
- Iron stairs on Capitol Hill residences are considered a "significant character-defining feature" by the HPO, requiring homeowners to maintain or replicate them.
- Homeowners face substantial fines and stop-work orders for altering properties without HPO approval, such as replacing windows or repairing eaves.
- The HPO's regulations and associated costs are identified as a major contributor to increased housing prices in Washington, D.C.
- The HPO's fee structure is percentage-based, incentivizing expensive alterations.