Washington Renters
Get Your Security Deposit Back in Washington
Your Washington landlord has 45 days to return your security deposit after you move out. Know your rights and hold them accountable.
45
Days to return
$2,300
Avg. rent
690K
Population
Washington Local Info
DC has strong tenant protections: deposit capped at 1 month's rent, must be held in interest-bearing escrow, and landlords have 45 days to return the deposit. Interest must be paid to tenants annually.
Local Ordinance
DC Security Deposit Act — D.C. Code § 42-3502.17
Landlord must return deposit within 45 days of move-out. Must provide itemized statement of any deductions. Deposit must be held in an interest-bearing account at a DC-insured financial institution.
Penalties: Tenant may recover the full deposit amount plus interest if the landlord fails to comply with the 45-day return deadline or escrow requirements. Court may also award reasonable attorney fees.
Read the full ordinance →Washington Deposit Rules
Interest Required
Yes
Statement savings rate at the financial institution where the deposit is held
Max Deposit
1 months' rent
Return Deadline
45 days
Penalty
Tenant may recover the full deposit amount plus interest if the landlord fails to comply with the 45-day return deadline or escrow requirements. Court may also award reasonable attorney fees.
Get Your Deposit Back in Washington: Step by Step
Wait for the 45-Day Deadline
DC gives landlords 45 days from move-out to return the deposit. Mark your calendar.
Verify Interest Payments
DC landlords must hold your deposit in an interest-bearing account and pay you interest. If they haven't, this strengthens your claim.
Send a Demand Letter
Reference D.C. Code § 42-3502.17 and note your entitlement to the full deposit, accrued interest, and attorney fees. Send via certified mail.
File in DC Superior Court Small Claims
File at 510 4th St NW, Room 120. Filing fees are only $15-$30. Claims up to $10,000.
Calculate Your Washington Deadline
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Local Small Claims Court
Court
DC Superior Court — Small Claims Branch
Address
510 4th St NW, Room 120, Washington, DC 20001
Filing Fee
$15-$30
Claims Limit
$10,000
District of Columbia Security Deposit Law
Return Deadline
45 days after move-out
Penalty for Late Return
Landlord forfeits the right to keep your deposit; you can recover up to treble (3x) damages
Washington Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my DC landlord have to return my deposit?
45 days from move-out. This is longer than most jurisdictions but still strictly enforced.
What is the maximum security deposit in DC?
1 month's rent. DC law caps security deposits at this amount for all residential rentals.
Does my DC landlord have to pay interest on my deposit?
Yes. DC landlords must hold deposits in an interest-bearing account at a DC-insured financial institution and pay interest to tenants.
What happens if my DC landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If the landlord fails to return the deposit within 45 days, you can sue for the full deposit amount plus accrued interest and reasonable attorney fees.
Where do I file a small claims case in DC?
File at DC Superior Court, Small Claims Branch, 510 4th St NW, Room 120. Filing fees are $15-$30. Claims up to $10,000.