District of Columbia landlord forms / Security Deposit Return Letter
District of Columbia Security Deposit Return Letter
$19An itemized security deposit return letter, timed to your state's statutory deadline — this is the single most litigated moment in a tenancy, and missing the deadline or itemization requirement can cost a landlord the right to keep any of the deposit.
Core state figures — deposit caps, notice periods, entry rules — independently verified by a licensed U.S. attorney.
What District of Columbia law requires
- Security deposit cap
- 1 month' rent14 DCMR § 308.2 · source
- Deposit return deadline
- 45 days after move-out14 DCMR § 309 · source
- Month-to-month termination notice
- 180 daysD.C. Code § 42-3505.01 · source
- Pay-or-quit notice (late rent)
- 30 daysD.C. Code § 42-3505.01(a-1)(1) · source
- Landlord entry notice
- 2 daysD.C. Code § 42-3505.51 · source
- Late fee guidance
- 5% of monthly rentD.C. Code § 42-3505.31 · source
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Most states penalize a late or non-itemized return — commonly forfeiting the right to withhold any amount, sometimes with additional statutory damages. Deadlines vary by state; this document is timed to yours.
Do I need to itemize every deduction?
Yes, in virtually every state — a vague "cleaning and repairs" line is not sufficient. List each deduction separately with its own amount.
Need more than one document?
The Complete Landlord Pack includes this document plus 5 more for District of Columbia, with unlimited edits for 12 months.
See the District of Columbia pack