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Rental Application – Landlords use this form to run a background check and employment history on tenants prior to signing the rental lease agreement form.
What does the Washington D.C. Rental Lease Agreement Cover?
This document includes the following laws between the landlord and tenant in Washington D.C.:
- Washington D.C. Residential Landlord & Tenant Act
- Security Deposit Law
- Lease Termination
- Landlord’s Access to the Property
- Rent Due Date plus Late Fees
- Required Disclosure Forms
Washington D.C. Residential Landlord & Tenant Act
The Washington D.C. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is a guide for landlords and tenants that outlines the legal rights and responsibilities. It covers lease agreements, rent regulations, eviction processes, maintenance responsibilities, and dispute resolutions.
- Maintenance of the Property – Landlords must make sure that the rental property meet the minimum housing standards and remains habitable. Tenants are responsible for keeping the premises clean and safe.
- Rental Agreements – Outlines rules for written or oral rental agreements between both parties. [1]
Security Deposit Requirements
Landlords in Washington D.C. can require a security deposit and must return it within 45 days after the tenant vacates, minus any deductions for damages.
- 45 Days – Timeframe to return the deposit. [2]
- Deductions (if any) must be itemized.
- Normal wear and tear cannot be deducted.
Lease Termination Rules for the Landlord and Tenant
Leases in Washington D.C. may be terminated by either party under the following rules:
- Landlord’s Ability to Terminate
- 5-day notice for nonpayment of rent.
- 30-day notice for material noncompliance with the rental agreement.
- Tenant’s Ability to Terminate
- With proper written notice for unsafe conditions or habitability issues.
- 30 days’ notice to terminate a month-to-month lease. [3]
Landlord’s Access to the Rental Property
Landlords must provide a 24-hour notice before entering the rental unit unless it’s an emergency. [4]
Rent Due Dates and Late Fees
- Late Fees – Must be written in the agreement.
- Grace Period – 5-day grace period.
- NSF Fee – $40 per bounced rent check. [5]
Required Disclosure Forms
- Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form – Landlords must disclose lead-based paint if the property was built before 1978. [6]
- District of Columbia Tenant Bill of Rights – This document outlines the rights and responsibilities of the tenants.[7]
- RAD Form 3 – This form is used by landlords in rent-controlled buildings to notify tenants of any adjustments in the rent.[8]
- RAD Form 5 – This form notifies tenants of rent changes due to reduced services or increased costs under the city’s Rental Housing Act of 1985.[9]
- Bed Bug Fact Sheet– This form us used to discloses any bed bug infestations on the rental property. [10]