District of Columbia Tenant Rights
DC has among the strongest tenant protections in the US, including comprehensive rent control and just-cause eviction.
Security Deposit
- Maximum allowed
- 1 month's rent
- Return deadline
- 45 days
- Itemized deductions required
- Yes
Landlord Entry
- Notice required
- 48 hours
- Emergency exception
- Yes — landlord may enter without notice in genuine emergencies
Notice to Vacate
- Month-to-month
- 30 days (tenant) / 90 days (landlord)
- Fixed-term lease
- Landlord must provide 120-day notice of intent not to renew
Rent Control
- Statewide rent control
- Yes
- Local ordinances allowed
- Yes
- Details
- DC has strong rent control (Rental Housing Act): annual increases capped at CPI + 2% for most units. Just-cause eviction required.
Late Fees & Grace Period
- Grace period
- 5 days
- Late fee limit
- 5% of monthly rent
Early Lease Termination
Strong protections. Just-cause eviction, rent control, extensive habitability requirements. Early termination for military, DV, safety violations.
Key Statutes & Laws
- DC Rental Housing Act (DC Code § 42-3501 et seq.)
- DC Code § 42-3201 et seq.
Frequently Asked Questions — District of Columbia Tenant Rights
What is the security deposit limit in District of Columbia?
In District of Columbia, the security deposit limit is 1 month's rent. Landlords must return the deposit within 45 days.
How much notice must a District of Columbia landlord give before entering?
District of Columbia requires 48 hours before landlord entry. Emergencies are exempt from notice requirements.
Does District of Columbia have rent control?
DC has strong rent control (Rental Housing Act): annual increases capped at CPI + 2% for most units. Just-cause eviction required.
Can I break my lease early in District of Columbia?
Strong protections. Just-cause eviction, rent control, extensive habitability requirements. Early termination for military, DV, safety violations.
What is the late fee grace period in District of Columbia?
5 days. Late fee limit: 5% of monthly rent.
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This guide provides general information about District of Columbia tenant rights and is not legal advice. Laws change — always verify current statutes with your local tenant rights organization or a licensed attorney. Last updated March 2026.