What to Include in a Lease Agreement in DC: Renter Essentials

If you're renting in the District of Columbia, it's important to know exactly what must be included in your lease agreement. In DC, both renters and landlords are protected by specific laws designed to make housing arrangements fair and transparent. A complete, legally compliant lease not only secures your rights but also sets clear expectations for your tenancy.

Key Elements Required in a District of Columbia Lease Agreement

District of Columbia law sets minimum requirements for what should appear in every residential lease. This helps to avoid misunderstandings and protects both renters and landlords under the DC Rental Housing Act ^[1]. Here’s what you should expect:

• Names of all parties: Full names of both you (the tenant) and your landlord or the property manager.
• Rental property address: The complete street address and unit/apartment number.
• Lease term: The length of the lease agreement (for example, 12 months or month-to-month).
• Rent amount and due date: Exact monthly rent, the due date, and accepted payment methods.
• Security deposit details: How much is required, where the deposit will be held, and how/when it will be returned.
• Maintenance responsibilities: Who is responsible for repairs and what process to follow when something breaks.
• Entry notice: Rules about when a landlord can enter your home and required advance notice (usually at least 48 hours).
• Termination and renewal terms: Conditions for ending or renewing the lease, plus any penalties for breaking it early.
• Disclosure of housing code violations: Landlords must inform tenants of outstanding housing code violations affecting health or safety.
• Lead paint disclosure: If the building was built before 1978, a lead-based paint disclosure is required.
• Contact information: For the person responsible for repairs or emergencies.

Both you and your landlord should receive a complete signed copy of the lease. Always review each clause before signing.

Mandatory Disclosures Breakdown

Besides the standard terms, DC leases must include several important disclosures. These serve to protect renters’ health, safety, and awareness.

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: For homes built before 1978. Landlords must give tenants the official pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home." View the EPA's sample forms.
• Housing Code Violations Disclosure Form (DCRA Form): Required if there are unresolved housing code violations. Learn more about housing safety inspections here.
• Rent Control Status: If your property is under rent control, your lease should state this, along with your rights under the DC Rent Stabilization Program.

Each of these disclosures keeps you informed about the state and legality of your rental unit.

Important Lease Forms for DC Renters

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD):
  Download from EPA.gov.
  When used: If you’re renting a home built before 1978, your landlord must provide this form before you sign the lease. For example, if you tour a pre-1978 apartment, ask for this form and the safety pamphlet before proceeding.
• DC Housing Code Violations Disclosure (inspection report or DCRA Form):
  See DCRA's housing inspection resources.
  When used: When applying to rent or before signing a new lease, ask to see any outstanding violation notices from the Department of Buildings (formerly DCRA). This helps you avoid moving into an unsafe or improperly maintained home.
• Rent Control Disclosure Statement:
  Read more about your rent control rights here.
  When used: Upon lease signing, this disclosure should inform you of any rent control protections and current rent level registration.

Having these forms ensures you start your lease knowing your rights and any issues with the unit.

Understanding the DC Tribunal and Law Protecting Renters

Renters in DC are protected by the District of Columbia Rental Housing Commission, which oversees disputes between tenants and landlords. If there’s a disagreement, you can seek help from the Rental Housing Commission or utilize resources from the Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA). The main law covering these issues is the DC Rental Housing Act.

FAQ: Lease Agreement Requirements in DC

1. What if my landlord doesn’t include required disclosures?
   If mandatory disclosures are missing from your lease (such as lead-based paint forms or information about housing code violations), you can request these in writing. If they’re still not provided, you may contact the DC Office of the Tenant Advocate for help.
2. Can I get a copy of my lease after signing?
   Yes, DC law requires the landlord to give each tenant a signed copy of the lease. Keep this document in a safe place.
3. Is a verbal lease valid in DC?
   Leases of one year or less can be oral but having a written agreement is strongly recommended for your protection. Longer leases must be in writing.
4. Does my lease have to mention rent control?
   If your unit is rent-controlled, the lease must include a rent control disclosure. This helps you know your protections regarding rent increases.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in the District of Columbia

• Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) – Support with tenant rights, forms, and dispute resolution.
• District of Columbia Rental Housing Commission – Handles appeals and enforcement of rental housing laws.
• Department of Buildings (DOB, formerly DCRA) – Housing inspections and code enforcement.
• DC Tenant Bill of Rights – Official summary of every renter’s basic rights in DC.

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1. DC Rental Housing Act of 1985 (D.C. Official Code § 42-3501 et seq.)
2. Tenant Bill of Rights (DC Office of the Tenant Advocate)
3. EPA Lead Disclosure Rules & Forms
4. DC Department of Buildings - Housing Inspections

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