DC Lease Renewal Rules: Can Your Landlord Refuse?

Facing the end of your lease in the District of Columbia can feel stressful—especially if you’re unsure whether your landlord has to renew, or can simply refuse. Knowing your rights under DC law helps you plan your next steps with confidence.

Lease Renewal Basics: Protections for DC Renters

In the District of Columbia, most residential tenants have strong protections when it comes to lease renewals. Unless you have a written lease that says otherwise, the law generally requires landlords to offer renewal or allow you to stay on a month-to-month basis at the end of your initial lease term. However, there are exceptions and required procedures. It’s important to understand when a landlord can legally refuse to renew.

When Can a Landlord Refuse to Renew Your Lease?

In DC, landlords generally cannot refuse to renew a lease or require you to move out without a legally valid reason. Common reasons recognized by law include:

• If the landlord plans to take possession for personal use (for themselves or close family)
• If there are serious lease violations (such as repeated late rent payments or illegal activity)
• Substantial renovations that cannot be done while you are living there
• Other reasons expressly permitted by the DC Rental Housing Act

If none of these reasons apply, your landlord must generally offer a lease renewal or continue your tenancy.

Notice Requirements for Non-Renewal

Landlords must give written notice if they want to end your tenancy for a valid legal reason. The notice period depends on the reason, but at least 30 days' advance written notice is typical. The notice must include:

• A clear statement of the reason for non-renewal or termination
• The date when the tenancy will end
• Your right to contest or respond

Relevant DC Form: "Notice to Vacate" (Form 1)

• Form Name: Notice to Vacate (sometimes called "90 Day Notice" or "30 Day Notice" for various reasons)
• Used when: A landlord wants to end the tenancy for a reason allowed by DC law. For instance, if the owner wants to move in, they serve this notice with the required reasons and timeframe.
• Official source: Sample Notice to Vacate - DC Office of Tenant Advocate

If you receive a Notice to Vacate, you have the right to seek legal advice or challenge the notice with the appropriate tribunal.

Key Legislation and Tribunal

• Main law: Rental Housing Act of 1985
• Tribunal: District of Columbia Rental Housing Commission

The DC Rental Housing Commission hears disputes regarding evictions, lease renewals, and tenant protections. If you disagree with a non-renewal notice, this is the body that ultimately reviews appeals and compliance.

What to Do If You Receive a Non-Renewal or Eviction Notice

1. Read the notice carefully: Make sure it states a legal reason recognized by DC law.
2. Check the timeline: The notice should give you at least 30 days (or longer for some reasons, such as owner-occupancy – often 90 days).
3. Know your options: You can contact the Office of Tenant Advocate for help, or respond to the landlord in writing.
4. If you oppose the notice or suspect it’s unlawful, you can file a complaint with the Rental Housing Commission or defend yourself in court.

FAQ: DC Lease Renewals and Your Rights

1. Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease for any reason?
   No, in DC landlords must have a legally valid reason—such as substantial renovation, owner move-in, or proven lease violations—to refuse lease renewal.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give if they don't want to renew?
   Generally, at least 30 days' written notice is required, but some situations (like owner move-in) require 90 days or more.
3. What can I do if I believe my landlord is refusing to renew my lease unlawfully?
   You can contact the DC Office of Tenant Advocate for assistance and may contest the notice at the Rental Housing Commission.
4. Does my lease automatically renew if my landlord doesn't act?
   Yes. In most cases, your tenancy becomes month-to-month under the original terms unless you or the landlord act to end it legally.
5. Are there forms I must fill out as a renter if I want to challenge a non-renewal?
   You may need to file a formal complaint with the Rental Housing Commission. Find sample forms on the Rental Housing Commission's official page.

Key Takeaways for DC Renters

• Landlords in DC can only refuse lease renewal for reasons recognized by law.
• Written, advance notice is always required—usually at least 30 days.
• Disputes can be taken to the DC Rental Housing Commission for review.

Knowing these basics can help protect your rights and provide more peace of mind as your lease term approaches its end.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Office of Tenant Advocate: Free assistance, complaint filing, and advice for tenants
• District of Columbia Rental Housing Commission: Handles rental law disputes, appeals, and resources
• Sample Notice to Vacate: Official form and guidance
• Full text of the DC Rental Housing Act: For tenants wanting to review the law

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1. DC Rental Housing Act of 1985 (D.C. Code §§ 42–3501.01 et seq.)
2. District of Columbia Rental Housing Commission
3. Office of Tenant Advocate
4. Sample Notice to Vacate (OTA)

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