D.C.'s deposit rules are set by housing regulations. Cap, staged refund deadlines, and interest conditions require verification of 14 DCMR §§308–311 before relying on these figures.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
—
no statutory cap
Return deadline
See notes
Interest required
—
statute silent
Separate account
—
statute silent
Maximum Security Deposit
No statutory maximum
Deposit cap requires direct verification of current housing regulations (14 DCMR §§308–311).
Return Deadline
See notes
Official code refers to 14 DCMR §§308–311; refund, withholding notice, and final accounting have distinct stages requiring verification.
Interest on Deposit
Statute silent
Official code recognizes tenant claims for unpaid deposit interest; conditions and rate need regulations.
Separate Account Required
Statute silent
Current escrow regulation not directly verified.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Current regulatory list not verified.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary District of Columbia statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia does not set a statutory maximum for security deposits. Landlords and tenants may agree to any amount in the lease. Deposit cap requires direct verification of current housing regulations (14 DCMR §§308–311).
Does District of Columbia require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
District of Columbia's security deposit statute does not expressly address whether landlords must pay interest on deposits. Official code recognizes tenant claims for unpaid deposit interest; conditions and rate need regulations.
Must District of Columbia landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
District of Columbia's statute does not clearly require a separate account for security deposits. Current escrow regulation not directly verified.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a District of Columbia deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in District of Columbia before making decisions. Official source: https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/42-3502.17. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.