District of Columbia tenant rights

DC has strong tenant protections: deposit return in 45 days, rent control on many older buildings, and 48-hour entry notice.

• District of Columbia security deposit law: 45 days to return the deposit; cap 1 month's rent
• District of Columbia eviction process: 30 days nonpayment notice
• District of Columbia repair obligations: habitability protected
• District of Columbia landlord entry notice: 48 hours entry notice
• District of Columbia rent increase rules: 30 days rent-increase notice

Nearby states: Maryland · Virginia.

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and vary by locality; consult a licensed attorney or your local housing authority.

Updated July 2026