How much a landlord can charge for a security deposit in Washington, D.C., the deadline to return it after move-out, and the statute that controls — verified June 7, 2026.
1 month of rent (first full month's rent, charged once). § 42-3502.17 incorporates the 1-month cap and 45-day/30-day tiered deadlines by reference to the regulations (14 DCMR 308 et seq.). Interest-bearing escrow required.
45 days to tender deposit or give written notice of intent to withhold; if withholding, refund balance + itemized statement within 30 days of that notice. Read D.C. Code § 42-3502.17; 14 DCMR §§ 308-311 (Security Deposit Act) for the exact triggers, itemization requirements, and penalties for late or bad-faith withholding.
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1 month of rent (first full month's rent, charged once). § 42-3502.17 incorporates the 1-month cap and 45-day/30-day tiered deadlines by reference to the regulations (14 DCMR 308 et seq.). Interest-bearing escrow required. This is a best-effort summary verified against the official statute (D.C. Code § 42-3502.17; 14 DCMR §§ 308-311 (Security Deposit Act)) on June 7, 2026 — always confirm with the current law or an attorney.
45 days to tender deposit or give written notice of intent to withhold; if withholding, refund balance + itemized statement within 30 days of that notice. See D.C. Code § 42-3502.17; 14 DCMR §§ 308-311 (Security Deposit Act) for the exact conditions and any itemization requirements.
D.C. Code § 42-3502.17; 14 DCMR §§ 308-311 (Security Deposit Act). The official text is published by the state at https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/42-3502.17.
No. This page is a best-effort summary compiled from primary legal authority and verified on June 7, 2026. Statutes change, and many states use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.
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