District of Columbia security-deposit return deadline

Under 14 DCMR §§309–311; D.C. Code §42-3502.17, you have 45–75 days from move-out. Enter the date the tenant vacated to get your exact deadlines.

Deadlines per 14 DCMR §§309–311; D.C. Code §42-3502.17. District of Columbia statutes change; verify with the current statute. Not legal advice.

What 14 DCMR §§309–311; D.C. Code §42-3502.17 requires

  • Return deadline: 45–75 days
    • 45 days Return deposit or give written notice of intent to withhold
    • 75 days Itemized statement and balance after notice of withholding. 30 additional days after the 45-day notice
  • Deposit cap: 1 month's rent
  • Notice of intent to withhold must be personal delivery or certified mail
  • Interest on the deposit must be paid with the refund
  • Bad-faith violation: treble the withheld amount plus interest

Statutes as of August 2026. Statutes change — verify with the current text of 14 DCMR §§309–311; D.C. Code §42-3502.17 before relying on a deadline. This is general information, not legal advice; consult a District of Columbia attorney for your situation.

Not in District of Columbia? Every state's deadline →

Inspections and deposits, tracked together

Move-in/move-out photo inspections, deposit ledgers, and the records a claim needs. Free for 14 days.