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Washington D.C. Landlord-Tenant Laws

This overview summarizes common Washington D.C. landlord-tenant topics using published statute references (D.C. Code 42-3502). Laws change — confirm details with official sources.

Washington D.C. at a glance: Security deposit limit: 1 month rent. Return deadline: 45 days after move-out. Month-to-month notice: 30 days. Source: D.C. Code 42-3502.
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Security Deposit Laws

Maximum Deposit:

1 month rent

Return Deadline:

45 days after move-out

Interest Required:

Yes

Landlords should provide an itemized deduction list when withholding any portion of the deposit.

Eviction Notice Requirements

Nonpayment of Rent:

30 days notice

Lease Violation:

30 days notice

Court filing and service rules vary by county. Use our eviction timeline calculator for planning.

Notice to Vacate

Month-to-Month Lease:

30 days notice

Fixed-Term Lease:

No notice required if lease ends

Late Rent Fees

Grace Period:

5

Maximum Late Fee:

5% of rent

Additional Regulations

Rent Control:

Yes (rent stabilization for buildings built before 1975)

Landlord Entry Notice:

48 hours

Primary statute reference: D.C. Code 42-3502

When to use Washington D.C. document templates

Use LeaseCraft templates when you need editable PDF or DOCX lease and notice forms built for Washington D.C. landlords and tenants. Start with the residential lease generator, then add notices from the sidebar.

Common mistakes in Washington D.C.

  • Relying on verbal agreements instead of a written lease with required disclosures
  • Missing the 45-day security deposit return window
  • Serving eviction or termination notices with incorrect day counts

Frequently asked questions

In Washington D.C., the commonly cited limit is 1 month rent. Return timing is typically 45 days after move-out. Confirm current rules in D.C. Code 42-3502.

Washington D.C. month-to-month tenancies typically require 30 days written notice unless the lease specifies otherwise.

Use our Washington D.C. lease agreement generator to build a residential lease with state-structured clauses. Preview free before download.

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