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Security Deposit Laws in the District of Columbia

The District of Columbia limits security deposits to one month's rent, requires return (or written notice of withholding) within 45 days after the tenancy ends, requires interest for tenancies of 12 months or more, and requires 48 hours' written notice before entry.

Last checked . General information, not legal advice.

District of Columbia at a glance

Security deposit limit
1 month's rent
Deposit return deadline
45 days
45 days after termination of the tenancy
Interest on deposits
Required in some cases
State law requires interest only in some situations, for example above a unit count or holding period
Notice before landlord entry
48 hours
48 hours' written notice

Sources

Last checked

The rules in District of Columbia

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in the District of Columbia?

District of Columbia limits security deposits to 1 month's rent.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in the District of Columbia?

District of Columbia rule: 45 days after termination of the tenancy.

Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in the District of Columbia?

Only in some cases. District of Columbia law requires interest only in certain situations, for example above a number of units or after the deposit is held for a set time. Check the statute for the details.

How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in the District of Columbia?

District of Columbia rule: 48 hours' written notice.

Where do the District of Columbia rules for residential leases come from?

They come from D.C. Code 42-3502.17, D.C. Code 42-3505.51, D.C. Law 26-156, Fair Housing Practices Amendment Act of 2026 and 1 other source. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.

How District of Columbia compares

District of Columbia is one of 30 jurisdictions that cap deposits by law. Its 45-day return deadline is longer than the most common deadline of 30 days; 39 jurisdictions require a faster return.

What this means in practice

Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.

Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.

Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.

General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.