District of Columbia Deposit Return Deadline
45 daysUnder District of Columbia law, a landlord generally has 45 days after move-out to return your security deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) — the FAQ below covers the conditions that can change the deadline.
Educational information: generated from our District of Columbia law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How District of Columbia compares
51 of 51 US jurisdictions set a statutory deadline for returning security deposits. Here is how District of Columbia compares with other states in our database.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in District of Columbia?
- Generally 45 days after move-out. 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.
- Can a District of Columbia landlord keep my deposit for damages?
- Landlords may generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, but must account for deductions. Deductions for ordinary wear and tear are not allowed.
- What if my District of Columbia landlord misses the deposit return deadline?
- Missing the statutory deadline (45 days) can expose the landlord to statutory penalties. 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.
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 security deposit limit
- 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.