Rent control laws in DC can be confusing, especially for small landlords. This post breaks down what rental properties are covered in 2025, how much you’re allowed to raise the rent, and what filings are required, even if your property is exempt. If you own rental property in DC, this is a quick, practical guide to staying compliant and avoiding common mistakes.
Rent control is one of those topics that every DC landlord hears about, but not everyone fully understands, especially if you’re managing your own property or just starting out. As we head through 2025, here’s a quick rundown of what you should know about how rent control works in Washington, DC, and how it might apply to your rental.
In DC, rent control generally applies to buildings built before 1975, unless you qualify for an exemption. The most common exemptions are:
If you're not sure where your property falls, it’s worth double-checking your status with the Rental Accommodations Division (RAD). Even if you're exempt, there's still paperwork you need to file.
The allowable rent increase in 2025 is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W), plus a 2% bump for most tenants. For this year, that adds up to around 4.9%, though the city will confirm the final number.
For elderly tenants (62+) or tenants with disabilities who’ve registered with the city, the increase is capped at CPI only, no extra 2%.
And remember: you can’t just raise rent out of the blue. You have to provide written notice at least 30 days in advance, and you can’t raise rent more than once in a 12-month period.
This part trips up a lot of landlords: even if your property is exempt from rent control, you still need to:
Skipping these steps can lead to fines, or worse, your exemption status being revoked.
The rent control rules in DC aren’t impossible to manage, but they do require some attention. If you’re a small landlord trying to keep up with the paperwork, while also managing tenants and maintenance, it’s a lot to juggle.
If you’re looking for expert property management services in DC, Eva Realty can help you navigate rent control and manage your rental with confidence.
