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District of ColumbiaLast reviewed April 2026

Is there rent control in District of Columbia?

Quick answer

Yes — District of Columbia has statewide rent control that caps annual increases at about 10% for most covered units.

Step-by-step answer

  1. Step 1

    What that means for you

    Most residential units in District of Columbia are covered by the 10% cap, though newer buildings and some single-family homes are exempt. Read your lease or ask the landlord in writing whether your unit is covered.

  2. Step 2

    How to find your local rules

    Search your city name plus "rent stabilization ordinance" or "rent control." A local tenant-rights or legal-aid organization can confirm whether your building is covered.

Plain English recap

Yes — District of Columbia has statewide rent control that caps annual increases at about 10% for most covered units.

Check your specific situation

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Location

Where do you rent?

Free legal help in District of Columbia

Free legal help in District of Columbia

Walk through three quick steps to find the right tenant-rights program for your situation.

What do you need help with?
When you call, ask about: a tenant intake appointment

Say: "I'm a tenant and need help understanding my rights and options."

Bring: your lease, recent rent receipts, and any letters or notices from your landlord.

State listings sourced from the federal Legal Services Corporation (LSC) grantee directory. Educational information, not legal advice or endorsement.

Other common questions about District of Columbia

Can my landlord raise my rent in District of Columbia? →How much can rent be raised in District of Columbia? →How much notice is required for a rent increase in District of Columbia? →Is a 10% rent increase legal in District of Columbia? →Can my landlord raise rent without notice in District of Columbia? →Can my landlord raise rent during my lease in District of Columbia? →What if my rent increase is illegal in District of Columbia? →How often can rent be raised in District of Columbia? →Can my landlord raise rent after my lease ends in District of Columbia? →
Read the full District of Columbia rent-increase guide →

State source

DC Code §42-3502

Educational only — not legal advice. Educational only — not legal advice. This page summarizes statewide rules and may not reflect city ordinances, your specific lease, or recent changes. For your situation, consult a licensed attorney or your local tenant-rights organization.
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