District of Columbia Landlord-Tenant Law (2026)
Notice periods, deposit caps, entry rules, and required disclosures for residential rentals in District of Columbia. Every rule links to the official state statute.
Reference only, not legal advice. State laws change. Confirm with the official District of Columbia statute or a licensed attorney before you serve notice or file a case.
Quick summary
Notice periods
- Nonpayment of rent
- 30 days
- Cure lease violation
- 30 days
- Notice to quit (month-to-month)
- 30 days
Security deposit
- Statutory cap
- 1 month of rent
- Return deadline after move-out
- 45 days
Landlord entry notice
48 hours advance notice
Required disclosures
- Lead paint (pre-1978)
- Mold
- Voter registration
- Tenant bill of rights
Market rules
- Rent control
- Statewide
- Small claims limit
- $10,000
Official state statute
Always confirm current law with the source before serving notice.
https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/titles/42/chapters/32District of Columbia landlord FAQ
How many days notice do I give a tenant for unpaid rent in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia requires a 30-day notice to the tenant before you can file for eviction for unpaid rent. The notice must comply with the form and delivery rules in the state statute.
What is the maximum security deposit in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia caps security deposits at 1 month of rent. Charging more than this is a violation of state law.
How many days do I have to return a security deposit in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia requires landlords to return the security deposit within 45 days after the tenant vacates. An itemized list of any deductions must accompany the refund.
How much notice must I give before entering a rental unit in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia requires 48 hours advance notice before a landlord enters a rental unit for a non-emergency reason.
Does District of Columbia have rent control?
District of Columbia has statewide rent control rules that apply across the state.
Is District of Columbia landlord-friendly or tenant-friendly?
District of Columbia is classified Tenant-Friendly. This is based on notice periods, deposit caps, eviction timelines, and tenant protection rules relative to other states. Use it as a general read, not a ranking.
What disclosures am I required to give tenants in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia requires: Lead paint (pre-1978), Mold, Voter registration, Tenant bill of rights. Some states add local disclosures by city. Always check the state statute for the current list.
What is the small claims court limit in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia small claims court hears cases up to $10,000. Most landlord-tenant disputes over deposits, damages, or unpaid rent fit within this limit.
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