District of Columbia Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
D.C. Code §42-3502.17 — Security Deposits
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 45 calendar days after termination of tenancy and tenant vacating.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 45 calendar days, you may be entitled to treble the amount wrongfully withheld under D.C. Code §42-3502.17(c).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 1 month rent
- Itemization required: Within 45 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $10,000
- Interest on deposit: Landlord must pay interest at rate determined annually by the Mayor
Additional Protections
- Deposit must be held in interest-bearing escrow account in DC-licensed institution
- Landlord must provide written receipt for deposit
- Interest must be paid annually or credited to rent
What Your District of Columbia Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from District of Columbia's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
D.C. Code §42-3502.17 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
45 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
treble the amount wrongfully withheld — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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District of Columbia Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in District of Columbia?
Under D.C. Code §42-3502.17, your landlord has 45 calendar days after termination of tenancy and tenant vacating to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my District of Columbia landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the legal deadline, you may be entitled to treble the amount wrongfully withheld under D.C. Code §42-3502.17(c). You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in District of Columbia?
Under D.C. Code §42-3502.17(a), the maximum security deposit in District of Columbia is 1 month rent.
Does my District of Columbia landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. District of Columbia law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 45 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in District of Columbia?
Yes. District of Columbia small claims court handles cases up to $10,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to send a security deposit demand letter in District of Columbia?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a District of Columbia-specific demand letter citing D.C. Code §42-3502.17 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
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