Washington, DC, District of Columbia · Updated April 2026
Rent increase rules in Washington, DC
Most pre-1976 buildings are rent-controlled: CPI + 2% (max 10%) per year. Tenants 62+ or with disabilities are capped at CPI alone (max 5%).
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State rules that apply in Washington, DC
Rent-controlled units: CPI + 2% (max 10%). Most buildings built before 1976 are covered. Elderly/disabled tenants get a lower cap (CPI, max 5%). Required notice: 30 days.
Local resource
DC Rental Accommodations Division
State source
Educational information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney or tenant-rights organization for your specific situation.