District of Columbia Security Deposit Limit
1 month's rentDistrict of Columbia generally caps residential security deposits at 1 month's rent. A lease clause demanding more than that may be unenforceable — the FAQ below covers the exact conditions.
Educational information: generated from our District of Columbia law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How District of Columbia compares
30 of 51 US jurisdictions cap security deposits by statute; the other 21 set no statewide cap (local caps can still apply in some cities). Here is how District of Columbia compares with other states in our database.
Frequently asked questions
- How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in District of Columbia?
- District of Columbia generally limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. Maximum 1 month rent. Must be held in interest-bearing escrow at DC financial institution. Tenant entitled to interest after 12 months. Return within 45 days with statement. Then 30 days for itemized repairs. Bad faith retention: 3x amount withheld.
- Does District of Columbia require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
- Yes — District of Columbia requires landlords to pay interest on held security deposits (deposits held 12+ months). It is one of 14 US jurisdictions with an interest requirement.
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in District of Columbia?
- District of Columbia landlords generally must return the deposit within 45 days after move-out.
Check Your Lease Against District of Columbia Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with District of Columbia law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.
Analyze My Lease FreeEducational tool — not legal advice. First analysis is free, no signup required.
More District of Columbia lease law guides
- District of Columbia rental lease laws — overview
- District of Columbia deposit return deadline
- District of Columbia deposit interest rules
- District of Columbia landlord entry notice
- District of Columbia late fee laws
- District of Columbia rent grace period
- District of Columbia prohibited lease clauses
- District of Columbia required disclosures
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in District of Columbia for your specific situation.