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Washington, D.C. lease setup checklist.

Print this and check off each item before you send a Washington, D.C. lease to a tenant. It's free, and it works whether or not you use LeaseSigning.

Washington, D.C. required steps

• Confirm the security deposit cap

  1 month's rent (D.C. Code § 42-3502.17).

• Set a lease-compliant late fee

  Capped at 5% of monthly rent (5-day grace) Allow a 5-day grace period.

• Plan entry-notice language

  Give at least 48 hours' notice before entering, absent an emergency.

• Set month-to-month termination notice

  30 days (month-to-month).

• Attach every required disclosure

  Lead-based paint, Rent Control status (RAD registration), Housing code violations, Move-in inspection, Voter registration packet, Bedbug (if known).

• Plan deposit return timing

  45 days (with itemization) (D.C. Code § 42-3502.17).

• Collect state-specific lease fields

  DC BBL (Basic Business License) #, RAD registration #, Rent control status.