Washington, D.C. · Step-by-step guide
How to sign a compliant Washington, D.C. lease.
A practical walkthrough of the six things a Washington, D.C. landlord must get right, in order, before and after signing.
Start My Washington, D.C. Lease →1. Confirm the deposit cap
1 month's rent. Statutory cite: D.C. Code § 42-3502.17.
2. Set late-fee terms correctly
Capped at 5% of monthly rent (5-day grace) Landlords generally must allow a 5-day grace period before assessing it.
3. Plan entry notice
Give at least 48 hours' notice before entering the unit outside an emergency.
4. Give correct termination notice
30 days (month-to-month) for a month-to-month tenancy.
5. Attach every required disclosure
Lead-based paint, Rent Control status (RAD registration), Housing code violations, Move-in inspection, Voter registration packet, Bedbug (if known).
6. Return the deposit on time
45 days (with itemization). Statutory cite: D.C. Code § 42-3502.17.
Washington, D.C. guide FAQs
- What order should a Washington, D.C. landlord follow before signing a lease?
- Confirm the deposit cap, set a compliant late fee, plan entry-notice language, set the correct termination notice, attach every required disclosure, and confirm the deposit-return timeline — in that order.
- Where can I find the full list of Washington, D.C. required disclosures?
- See the full disclosure list on the Washington, D.C. state page, or browse disclosure requirements by topic across all states.