District of Colombia Rental Laws

District of Colombia Rental Laws 

Your Guide to District of Columbia Rental Laws with helpful links and information for leases, rent, security deposits, tenant screening, real estate and government.

Official Website of the District of Colombia

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that the District’s population was 658,893 on July 1, 2014, a 9.5% increase since the 2010 United States Census.

State Rules and Regulations

Important Lease Terms

Security Deposits

  • Amount: 1 Month
  • Return Deadline:  45 Days

Fees and Notice

  • Applications Fees: No Restrictions
  • Termination Notice:  30 Days
  • Tenant Rights to Withhold Rent: Yes and can repair and deduct

Landlord Disclosures

Real Estate Links

Federal Government

  • Fair Credit Reporting Act:  Federal Government legislation which promotes the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies.
  • Fair Housing Act:  The Fair Housing Act protects people from discrimination when they are renting, buying, or securing financing for any housing. The prohibitions specifically cover discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability and the presence of children

Credit Reports

Tenant Screening

Last Updated: April 7, 2020