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How Much Can Landlords Charge for Security Deposits in D.C.?

Security deposits are capped at one month’s rent in Washington, D.C.


If you’re signing a lease for a place in D.C., then your landlord will almost certainly ask you to put down a security deposit. The most they can require you to pay is one month’s rent—any higher and it’s illegal under D.C. law. So if your monthly rent is $1,500, the maximum security deposit you can be asked to fork over is $1,500. This applies regardless of the number of roommates you might have. Even if you're moving in with two other people, your landlord can't ask for a bigger deposit.

D.C. laws relating to security deposits also require your landlord to give you certain info about where they're storing your money once they've accepted your check. Plus, they have to hand over the interest they've earned on your deposit once the lease is up—something most renters aren't aware of.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice.