If you’re a landlord in Washington, DC, staying on top of local regulations isn’t just a good idea — it’s required. The DC Tenant Bill of Rights is a prime example of just how seriously the District takes housing protections under its authority.

Whether you’re a seasoned property owner or new to managing rentals, understanding this document — and how it connects to tenant-based vouchers and other programs — can help you stay compliant and avoid costly missteps along the way.

On that note, here’s what every landlord needs to know.

What Is the DC Tenant Bill of Rights?

The DC Tenant Bill of Rights is a document issued by the DC Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) that outlines both tenants’ legal protections and your responsibilities as a landlord. It’s not just a summary — it’s required by law to be shared with tenants at the beginning of a lease and with any renewal.

The goal? Transparency. The law ensures tenants know their rights related to:

• Rent control and increases
• Eviction protections
• Security deposits
• Housing code standards
• Access to legal resources

Failing to provide the Bill of Rights can open you up to administrative penalties and complaints, so it’s certainly not something to overlook!

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DC Landlord-Tenant Rules — A Quick Refresher

Operating in DC is different than in many other cities. Local housing laws tend to be very tenant-friendly, and the city enforces them aggressively.

Some key DC landlord-tenant rules to remember:

• Rent increases must follow strict timelines and can only occur once every 12 months (for rent-controlled units).
• Security deposits must be returned within 45 days of the lease ending — minus any deductions with itemized documentation.
• Evictions require a court order — no exceptions. Even if rent is unpaid, self-help evictions (like changing locks) are illegal.

What About Tenant-Based Vouchers?

Tenant-based vouchers — often referred to under the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program — are another key consideration for landlords in DC.

So, what is a tenant-based voucher? It’s a subsidy that follows the tenant, not the property. The DC Housing Authority pays part of the rent directly to the landlord, and the tenant covers the rest. It’s different from project-based vouchers, which are tied to specific units. Landlords who accept voucher holders must meet HUD’s housing quality standards and agree to DC’s Fair Housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on source of income — including vouchers.

An important note: You are not allowed to reject a tenant solely because they use a voucher. Doing so is considered discrimination and is enforceable under the DC Human Rights Act.

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Final Thoughts for Landlords

At the end of the day, The DC Tenant Bill of Rights isn’t just paperwork — it’s part of the broader ecosystem of DC landlord-tenant rules designed to protect residents and maintain housing stability.

Whether you’re working with market-rate tenants or those using tenant-based vouchers, staying informed and compliant is the best way to protect your investment — and keep your reputation intact.

Need help navigating DC housing requirements or unsure how to update your lease practices? Now’s the time to brush up.

Looking to buy or sell this summer? Our team will be with you from search to signing. Get in touch with us today by calling 202.280.2060 or emailing us at jsmira@jennsmira.com.