District of Columbia Rent Control Laws: 2025 Guide for Renters

Renters in the District of Columbia have important protections under local rent control and rent stabilization laws. If you're facing a rent increase, want to know your rights, or need to understand which forms to use, this guide covers what you need to know about DC rent control for 2025.

Is Rent Control in Effect in Washington, DC?

Yes. The District of Columbia has strong rent control laws that limit how much most landlords can increase rent each year. These laws are designed to ensure rents remain stable and affordable for tenants living in covered properties.

Which Rentals Are Covered by DC Rent Control?

• Generally, apartment buildings built before December 31, 1975 are subject to rent control.
• Single-family homes, condos, and buildings built after 1975 are mostly exempt.
• Other exemptions include government-subsidized units and landlords owning four or fewer rental units (with some conditions).

Detailed exemption criteria can be found in the DC Rental Housing Act of 1985.¹

How Do Rent Increases Work Under DC Rent Control?

There are clear rules on how much rent can increase for rent-controlled properties each year. Landlords must follow these limits and provide proper notice.

• Annual Increase Limit: In most cases, the allowed annual increase is the Consumer Price Index (CPI) + 2%, but never more than 10% total.
• Notice Requirement: Landlords must give tenants at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase.
• Registration: All rent-controlled properties must be registered with the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

To verify whether your unit is rent-controlled or to check current allowable increases, you can visit the DHCD Rent Control Program page.²

Rental Forms: What DC Renters Need

• Notice of Rent Increase (Form RAD-7)
  When is it used? This form must be provided by landlords to tenants when increasing rent in a rent-controlled unit.
  Example: If your landlord plans to raise your rent by 4%, they must complete Form RAD-7 and provide it to you at least 30 days in advance.
  Download the official Notice of Rent Increase (RAD-7)
• Tenant Petition (Form RAD-15)
  When is it used? If you believe your rent was raised illegally or want to challenge other violations, you can file this petition.
  Example: You receive a rent increase of 15%, which seems above the legal limit. You may use RAD-15 to challenge it.
  Access the official Tenant Petition (RAD-15)

Both forms and full instructions are available on the official DHCD Rent Control Forms portal.³

Where to Go with Disputes: DC's Housing Tribunal

Most rent control disputes, including unlawful rent increases or eviction concerns, are handled by the Rental Housing Division of the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) in DC.⁴ Here, renters and landlords can file and resolve disputes through an official tribunal process.

If you suspect your rent increase was not properly noticed or may exceed DC rent control limits, consider filing a Tenant Petition (RAD-15) and contact OAH for guidance.

What Law Protects DC Renters?

Rules on rent control, eviction protections, and notice requirements come from the Rental Housing Act of 1985 (as amended), which is the primary DC tenancy legislation.¹

FAQ: District of Columbia Rent Control

1. How much can my rent go up under DC rent control in 2025?
   For most rent-controlled apartments, rent may rise by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 2%, but cannot exceed 10% in one year.
2. Is my rental property subject to DC rent control?
   If your building was built before January 1, 1976 and is not exempt (such as single-family or newly built units), it likely is. Check with DHCD to be sure.
3. What notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   At least 30 days' written notice with official form RAD-7 for rent-controlled apartments.
4. What can I do if my landlord raises rent more than allowed?
   You can file a Tenant Petition (RAD-15) with DHCD and may request a hearing at the OAH Rental Housing Division.
5. Where can I get help with a rent control complaint?
   Start with DHCD's Rental Accommodations Division or contact the Office of Administrative Hearings for guidance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for DC Renters

• Most apartments built before 1976 are covered by DC rent control, which limits annual rent increases.
• Landlords must give official written notice before increasing rent.
• If you have concerns, you can file official forms or seek help from the DHCD and OAH.

Understanding your rental rights and available resources is the best way to protect yourself as a DC tenant in 2025.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) – Rent Control Program: Information, forms, and contact details for tenant support.
• Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) – Rental Housing Division: Where to file disputes or seek hearings.
• DC Rent Control Forms Portal: Official forms for rent increases and petitions.
• Rental Housing Act of 1985 (Current DC Law)

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1. DC Rental Housing Act of 1985, Title 42, Chapter 35
2. District of Columbia Department of Housing and Community Development – Rent Control Program
3. DHCD Official Rent Control Forms & Guides
4. DC Office of Administrative Hearings – Rental Housing Division

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