DC Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Security Protections

If you are a renter in the District of Columbia and experiencing domestic violence, you have important legal rights to help keep yourself and your household safe. DC law provides renters with specific protections, including the ability to change locks and, in some cases, break a lease early without penalty. This guide explains your security rights and the steps to get help, so you can make informed decisions and protect your peace of mind.

Your Rights as a Tenant Facing Domestic Violence in DC

The District of Columbia has strong legal protections for tenants who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. DC’s laws are designed to help renters seek safety without risking their housing stability.

• You have a right to request a lock change from your landlord.
• You may be able to end your lease early without financial penalty if remaining puts you in danger.
• It is illegal for your landlord to evict or discriminate against you solely because you are a survivor of domestic violence.

Requesting a Lock Change

Under DC Code § 42–3505.07, if you provide written notice and documentation (such as a police report or protection order), your landlord must change your locks within five business days. The law prohibits landlords from providing keys to the alleged abuser unless they are named on the lease and you have not obtained a court order excluding them.

• Official Form Required: There is no universal DC government “Lock Change Request” form, but you must submit a written request and supporting documentation (e.g., a Civil Protection Order or police report).
• How it Works: For example, if you obtain a protection order against an abusive partner, you can submit a written request to your landlord with a copy of the order. Your landlord must change the locks within 5 business days.

Early Lease Termination for Your Safety

The DC Code allows you to end your rental agreement early if you are a survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. You must provide:

• Written notice (usually 14 days)
• Documentation of the abuse (such as a protection order or police report from within the last 90 days)

Once proper notice is given, you are released from liability for future rent from the termination date. You do not have to pay penalties or additional fees for leaving early due to domestic violence.

Protections from Retaliation and Discrimination

Your landlord cannot evict, refuse to rent, or otherwise discriminate against you based on your status as a survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. If you believe your landlord is retaliating or not honoring these protections, you have the right to file a complaint or seek legal remedy.

Key Forms and Where to Find Them

• DC Superior Court Civil Protection Order Application
  Apply for a protection order online or in person.
  Use: Survivors file this court form to request a legal order to keep abusers away. Use this document as supporting evidence when notifying your landlord.
• Written Notice to Landlord (No Official Number)
  Use: Draft a written request for a lock change and/or early lease termination. Attach your police report or protection order.

For official help with rent, security, eviction, and tenant complaints in rental housing matters, the DC Office of Tenant Advocate (OTA) is the leading agency. You can also use the OTA Complaint Form if your landlord refuses to honor your domestic violence protections.

The DC Tribunal for Residential Tenancy Matters

Most rental disputes, including those involving domestic violence protections, are handled through the Landlord and Tenant Branch of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.

DC Tenant Laws on Domestic Violence

• DC Code § 42–3505.07: Protections for Domestic Violence Victims
• DC Tenant Rights Under the Law

This legislation is updated regularly, so always check official sources for the most recent version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I change my locks if I experience domestic violence in DC?
   Yes, with written notice and documentation (such as a protection order), your landlord must change your locks within five business days.
2. Am I allowed to end my lease early due to domestic violence?
   Yes. If you provide notice and proper documentation to your landlord, you may terminate your lease early without penalty under DC law.
3. What proof do I need for these protections?
   Acceptable documentation includes a recent police report or a court-issued protection order.
4. Can my landlord evict me for being a domestic violence survivor?
   No. DC law prohibits landlords from evicting or discriminating against tenants on this basis.
5. Where do I file a complaint if my landlord refuses my request?
   You should file with the DC Office of Tenant Advocate or seek a remedy with the Landlord and Tenant Branch of DC Superior Court.

Key Takeaways

• DC renters facing domestic violence have legal rights to request lock changes and, in many cases, end leases early for their protection.
• Your landlord must act promptly when you provide written notice and documentation.
• Help is available—reach out to official DC resources if you need assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Office of Tenant Advocate: Tenant rights, complaint forms, and legal help
• DC Superior Court: Protection Order Information
• DC Department of Human Services – Domestic Violence Programs
• File a Complaint with the OTA
• Text of DC Tenant Protections for Victims

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1. DC Code § 42–3505.07: Protection for Domestic Violence Victims
2. DC Civil Protection Order Law
3. DC Office of Tenant Advocate (OTA)
4. Landlord and Tenant Branch of the DC Superior Court

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