Handling Lease Buyout Offers as a Renter in DC

If you are renting in the District of Columbia, you may encounter a situation where your landlord offers to buy out your lease before its end date. It's important to understand what a lease buyout means and how to protect your rights under DC's rental laws. This article explains the essentials of lease buyout offers, the forms involved, and the steps to take if you receive such an offer.

What Is a Lease Buyout Offer?

A lease buyout offer is a proposal from your landlord to pay you to move out of your rental unit before your lease ends. This often happens when landlords want to renovate, sell the property, or change tenants. In the District of Columbia, specific rules apply to these offers, so make sure you know your rights.

Your Rights Regarding Lease Buyouts in DC

In DC, lease buyouts are regulated by the District of Columbia Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA) and the Rental Housing Act of 1985¹. Landlords cannot pressure, harass, or threaten tenants to accept a buyout. You do not have to accept a buyout, and your refusal cannot be used as a basis for eviction.

• Any buyout agreement must be in writing.
• Tenants have at least 15 days to consider the offer before signing.
• You have the right to consult with an attorney or advocacy group.
• Landlords must provide a copy of the buyout agreement to the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

Key Forms for Lease Buyout Agreements

• Lease Buyout Agreement Form (no standard number):
  How it’s used: This written agreement outlines the terms of the buyout—such as the amount offered and the move-out date. Do not sign until you have had time to review (at least 15 days) and ask questions.
  See DC Lease Buyout Agreement Template
• Notice of Lease Termination (as applicable):
  How it’s used: If you accept a buyout, you or your landlord may file this form to officially end the lease. Make sure the termination date aligns with your agreement.
  Sample DC Notice of Termination

Always keep copies of any agreement and correspondence for your records.

What Should You Do If You Receive a Lease Buyout Offer?

If your landlord makes a buyout offer, take these steps to make an informed decision:

• Request the offer in writing, if not already provided.
• Review the agreement carefully, especially the amount and move-out terms.
• Take at least 15 days before deciding—do not rush.
• Consult the DC Department of Housing and Community Development Tenant Rights page for guidance.
• Contact a free tenant advocacy group or legal aid if you have questions.

Who Regulates Tenant-Landlord Disputes in DC?

The District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) handles disputes related to residential tenancies, including buyout complaints and retaliation.

Relevant DC Rental Laws

• Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA)
• Rental Housing Act of 1985

These laws outline your rights as a tenant during a buyout and protect you from coercion or retaliation.

FAQ: Lease Buyouts in the District of Columbia

1. Do I have to accept a lease buyout offer from my landlord?
   No. You are not obligated to accept a lease buyout, and landlords cannot evict you for refusing to accept one.
2. How much time do I have to decide on a lease buyout offer?
   DC law requires that you are given at least 15 days to consider any buyout agreement before signing.
3. What should I do before signing a lease buyout agreement?
   Review the agreement carefully, seek legal advice if possible, and confirm all terms such as payment and move-out date. Never sign under pressure.
4. Can my landlord retaliate if I refuse the buyout?
   No. Landlords are prohibited from retaliating against tenants who decide not to accept a buyout offer under DC law.
5. Where can I get help with a lease buyout or tenant issue in DC?
   You can contact the DC Department of Housing and Community Development or the Office of Administrative Hearings for assistance.

Key Takeaways for DC Renters

• Never feel pressured to accept a lease buyout; you have 15 days to decide.
• Get every agreement in writing and review all terms before signing.
• Contact DC tenant resources or legal aid if you have questions or concerns.

Making informed decisions can help you safeguard your rental rights and finances.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Department of Housing and Community Development Tenant Rights: Advice, complaint forms, and guides for renters.
• District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) Rental Housing Section: File disputes or access official hearing information.
• Law Help DC: Free legal help for renters in Washington, DC.
• DC Tenant Advocacy Coalition: Community-based support and know-your-rights assistance.

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1. Rental Housing Act of 1985 (DC Code Title 42, Chapter 35)
2. Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA)
3. DC Department of Housing and Community Development Tenant Rights Page
4. District of Columbia Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) Rental Housing

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