Moovproof

District of Columbia · DC

In District of Columbia, a landlord must return a security deposit within 45 calendar days.

Return deadline
45 calendar days
Itemized statement
Required
Move-in condition list
Not required by statute
Maximum deposit
1 month's rent
Interest on deposit
Required

If the landlord withholds in bad faith

Landlord liable for the amount wrongfully withheld or, if in bad faith, for treble damages; bad faith means a frivolous or unfounded refusal motivated by a dishonest or unreasonably self-serving purpose.

45 days to return in full or send written notice of intent to withhold; if withholding, an additional 30 days to send the itemized statement and balance (worst case ~75 days). Deposit held in interest-bearing escrow at a semi-annual statement-savings rate.

Check your deadlineDraft a demand letter

14 DCMR §§ 308-309; D.C. Code § 42-3502.17 · source · verified 2026-07-10

General information, not legal advice. Statutes change and local rules vary — check your lease and your local law, or consult a tenant attorney or legal aid.