How long does a D.C. landlord have to return a security deposit?
The owner generally has 45 days after the tenancy ends or you vacate to return the deposit with any interest due or send written notice that money will be withheld. If the owner sends that withholding notice, the itemized statement and any remaining balance are due within 30 more days.
What happens if a D.C. landlord sends notice of intent to withhold?
The notice keeps the process open, but it does not end the owner's duties. After a timely notice of intent to withhold, the owner generally has 30 more days to provide an itemized statement of repairs or other uses and refund any remaining balance, including interest not properly used.
Does a D.C. landlord have to pay interest?
Yes, D.C. deposit rules include interest and account requirements. Interest can matter especially for longer tenancies. If your refund does not mention interest, keep the refund record and ask for a clear explanation.
Can a D.C. landlord charge more than one month's rent as a deposit?
D.C. tenant guidance says the security deposit generally may not exceed one month's rent for ordinary covered private rentals. Do not apply that rule blindly to federal or D.C. agency units, subsidized units, voucher units, DCHA/public housing, HUD-assisted housing, or program-paid deposits without checking the overlay.
Can a D.C. landlord deduct for ordinary wear and tear?
No. D.C. Code Section 42-3502.17 says a housing provider may not withhold a security deposit for the replacement value of apartment items damaged by ordinary wear and tear.
What counts as ordinary wear and tear in D.C.?
D.C. defines ordinary wear and tear as deterioration from intended use of the dwelling unit, including breakage or malfunction because of age or deteriorated condition. It does not include negligence, carelessness, accident, or abuse by the tenant, an immediate family member, or a guest.
Does a D.C. move-out inspection require notice?
D.C. rules include a move-out inspection process within three days before or after termination, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Written notice of the inspection time and date should be delivered at least 10 days before the intended inspection.
Can a D.C. tenant get triple damages?
Bad-faith refusal may support treble-damages exposure, but it is not automatic. Bad faith is different from simple negligence, bad judgment, or an honest belief. Keep the timeline, notices, interest records, inspection proof, itemization, and demand letters organized.
Where can a D.C. tenant complain about a security deposit?
OAH may matter for non-return of a deposit or nonpayment of interest complaints. The right route can depend on the facts, so confirm current filing and procedure details before relying on that path.
Can I use D.C. small claims?
D.C. Small Claims can be a money-claim path for claims of $10,000 or less. Ordinary deposit refund claims may fit that route if you are asking for money. Landlord and Tenant Branch and the Housing Conditions Calendar are related housing paths but are not the default route for every deposit refund money claim.
What if my unit is Section 8, DCHA, federally subsidized, or program-assisted?
Treat that as a special overlay. Housing Choice Voucher/Section 8, DCHA/public housing, HUD-assisted housing, federal or D.C. agency units, and security-deposit assistance programs can have separate rules. This FAQ flags the issue but does not replace program-specific review.
What proof should I keep?
Keep the lease, deposit receipt, deposit amount/date, rent amount, move-out date proof, key return proof, current address or contact proof, photos, videos, inspection notices, withholding notices, itemized statements, refund and interest records, envelopes, certified-mail receipts, emails, texts, and screenshots.
What should I do if the deposit is late?
Confirm the timeline first. If the 45-day return-or-notice step or the 30-day itemization follow-up was missed, send a clear written demand and keep proof that you sent it.
A four-step D.C. notice sequence built around timing, interest, itemization, ordinary wear and tear, inspection records, and proof.
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This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.