District of Columbia Tenant Resources
Your comprehensive guide to rental laws, guidelines and advocacy in the District of Columbia
What are the late fee regulations in DC?
In DC, late fees are capped at 5% of the monthly rent amount. Late fees cannot be charged until a rent payment is at least 5 days late, and must be clearly specified in the lease agreement. Landlords must provide written notice before charging late fees.
What are the rules for security deposits in DC?
In DC, security deposits are limited to one month's rent. Landlords must return the deposit with interest within 45 days of move-out, along with an itemized list of any deductions. The deposit must be held in an interest-bearing account in a financial institution in DC.
What are the eviction rules and tenant protections in DC?
DC has strong tenant protections: 1) Written notice required (30 days for most violations), 2) Evictions only through court order, 3) Just cause required for eviction, 4) Tenants have right to cure lease violations, 5) No evictions during winter months or rain. Self-help eviction is illegal with steep penalties.
What are the maintenance requirements for landlords in DC?
DC landlords must maintain properties according to the DC Housing Code, including: structural integrity, working plumbing/electrical systems, adequate heating/cooling, proper ventilation, and pest control. Landlords must make repairs within specified timeframes based on violation severity. Tenants must report issues in writing.
What notice is required for landlord entry in DC?
DC law requires landlords to provide at least 48 hours written notice before entering a rental unit for non-emergency purposes. Entry is limited to reasonable hours (8am-8pm). Immediate entry is only permitted for genuine emergencies. Tenants have the right to be present during entry.
Who is responsible for pest control in DC rental units?
In DC, landlords are legally responsible for pest control and extermination services unless the infestation is proven to be caused by tenant negligence. Landlords must respond to pest complaints within 7 days and provide professional extermination services as needed.
What are the rent control rules in DC?
DC has rent control laws for buildings built before 1976 with 5+ units. Annual rent increases are limited to CPI + 2% (max 10%). For vacant units, increases are capped at 10-30% depending on circumstances. Landlords must register with Rental Accommodations Division and provide proper notice for increases.
What are the rules for subletting in DC?
In DC, tenants have the right to sublet with landlord approval, which cannot be unreasonably withheld. The request must be in writing, and landlords must respond within 30 days. Original tenants remain liable for rent and damages unless released by the landlord.
What are the repair and deduct rights in DC?
DC tenants can use 'repair and deduct' if landlords fail to fix violations within reasonable time after written notice. Tenants can repair and deduct costs from rent (with proper documentation) or file a complaint with DCRA. Maximum deduction is one month's rent.
What disclosures are required from DC landlords?
DC landlords must disclose: • Lead paint (pre-1978) • Property owner/manager info • Rent control status • Tenant rights and responsibilities • Building code violations • Bedbug history • Security deposit terms • Utility arrangements • TOPA rights
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, laws and regulations can change frequently. Specific situations may vary, and the application of rental laws can depend on numerous factors. We recommend consulting with a qualified legal professional for advice regarding your specific circumstances.
