Understanding DC Rent Caps & Local Rent Stabilization

If you rent your home in the District of Columbia, you may be protected by local rent control ordinances. This guide explains how DC's rent caps work, what rent stabilization means, and what forms you need if you have questions or concerns about your rent. We also link to the official sources so you can feel confident about your next steps as a renter.

How Rent Control Works in Washington, DC

Rent control and rent stabilization are programs that limit how much a landlord can increase rent each year. In DC, most rental properties built before 1976 are covered by rent control laws under the Rental Housing Act of 1985^[1]. These rules set annual limits—or "caps"—on rent for covered units.

Who Is Covered by DC Rent Control?

• Buildings with five or more units built before 1976
• Units not owned by small-scale landlords (four or fewer units and the owner lives there)
• Subsidized and some nonprofit housing may be excluded

If your rental is covered, your landlord must follow rules about how much and how often they can raise your rent.

How Much Can Your Rent Increase?

• For 2024, rent increases are capped at the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 2%, but total increases cannot be more than 6.2%.
• For older adults (62+) and people with disabilities, the cap is CPI only (4.2% for 2024).
• Landlords can only raise rent once every 12 months and must give 30 days’ written notice.

These rent caps help protect renters from sudden or large rent hikes. The caps change yearly based on official inflation rates.

Where to Go for Rent Disputes or Questions

In the District of Columbia, the Office of the Tenant Advocate and the Rental Housing Commission (RHC) handle tenant questions and disputes. If you think your rent increase is too high or the rules weren't followed, you can file a complaint with the RHC or seek help from the Office of the Tenant Advocate.

Official Tenant Forms in DC

• Tenant Petition (Form RAD 15)
  When to use: If you believe your rent increase is unlawful or other rights have been violated, fill out and submit this form.
  How it works: For example, if your rent was raised more than the legal cap, you can file Form RAD 15 with the Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) to start an official review.
  Access RAD 15 Tenant Petition PDF
• Notice of Rent Increase (Form RAD 5)
  When to use: Your landlord is required to use this form to give you written notice of any proposed rent increase.
  Practical example: Landlords must deliver this form to you at least 30 days before any rent increase. If you do not receive this notice, the rent increase may not be valid.
  Download RAD 5 Notice of Rent Increase PDF

If you need help with these forms or aren’t sure what to do, reach out to the Office of the Tenant Advocate for free guidance.

Filing a Rent Dispute: What Are the Steps?

• Gather proof of your rent history and the notice received
• Fill out the appropriate form (often Form RAD 15 for complaints)
• Submit your form to the Rental Accommodations Division (RAD)
• Attend a hearing if the case goes forward

Each year, the Mayor’s Office announces the CPI and new rent adjustment cap. You can check the current cap at the DC Department of Housing and Community Development website on the Rent Control in the District of Columbia page.

Rent Stabilization in DC: What Else to Know

DC’s rent control law works alongside other tenant protections, like security deposit rules and requirements for proper repair and maintenance. If you experience any issues, document everything and keep all notices and payment records.

Some cities and neighborhoods in the DC Metro area outside the District (such as parts of Maryland and Northern Virginia) may have rent stabilization discussions or proposals, but DC itself has the only binding rent control law within the District’s boundaries at this time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is my apartment covered by Washington DC rent control?
   Most apartments in buildings built before 1976 with five or more units are covered, unless specific exemptions apply. You can ask the Rental Housing Commission to confirm your status.
2. How much can my landlord raise my rent each year in DC?
   For 2024, the cap is 6.2%. For tenants 62 and older or with a disability, the cap is 4.2% for 2024.
3. What should I do if my landlord increases the rent above the allowed cap?
   You can file a Tenant Petition (Form RAD 15) with the Rental Accommodations Division to dispute the increase.
4. What notice am I entitled to before a rent increase?
   Your landlord must provide a written Notice of Rent Increase (Form RAD 5) at least 30 days before the change takes effect.
5. Who can help me if I have a rent control or rent increase issue?
   The Office of the Tenant Advocate and the Rental Housing Commission are your main official resources for help.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for DC Renters

• DC’s rent control law limits annual rent increases for many renters, with extra protection for seniors and those with disabilities.
• You have the right to receive official notice and to challenge improper rent hikes by using government forms and services.
• Contact official resources if you’re unsure about your rights or the status of your rental—help is free and confidential.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• DC Office of the Tenant Advocate – Free assistance with all tenant issues, rent caps, forms, and disputes
• DC Rental Housing Commission – Official tribunal for rent control, disputes, and information
• Rent Control Information – DC Department of Housing and Community Development
• Rental Housing Act of 1985 (Official Legislation)

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1. Rental Housing Act of 1985 – District of Columbia Official Code
2. Office of the Tenant Advocate (District of Columbia)
3. DC Rental Housing Commission (Tribunal)
4. DHCD: Rent Control in DC
5. Form RAD 15 - Tenant Petition (PDF)
6. Form RAD 5 - Notice of Rent Increase (PDF)

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