Comprehensive guide to Washington DC rent control laws, CPI-W rates, RAD registration, and compliance requirements for landlords.
For rent-controlled properties, the maximum is CPI-W + 2%. The RHC-published 2026 CPI-W is 2.1%, making the standard max increase 4.1%. For elderly or disabled tenants, the cap is 2.1% (CPI-W only). Non-rent-controlled properties have no statutory cap but must still provide 30 days notice.
Probably, unless you qualify for an exemption. Properties built before 1976 are generally covered. The main exemptions are: buildings of 4 or fewer rental units owned by no more than 4 natural persons, none of whom holds an interest in any other DC rental unit (owner-occupancy is NOT required — § 42-3502.05); new construction (built 1976+); and federally subsidized housing. If you are unsure, check with RAD.
Yes. Vacancy decontrol allows you to set rent at market rate when a unit becomes vacant. Once the new tenant moves in, rent control limits apply again. This is one reason turnover can be valuable for landlords in DC.
RAD (Rental Accommodations Division) tracks all rental units in DC. If your property is subject to rent control, you must register within 30 days of your first tenant. Annual updates are required. Without registration, you cannot legally increase rent.
The Rental Housing Commission publishes the official adjustment of general applicability each year, effective May 1, based on the CPI-W for the DC area. Check the RHC website or use our rent increase calculator, which is updated automatically.
Yes. Tenants can file a petition with RAD if they believe you exceeded the legal limit or did not follow proper procedures. If RAD finds a violation, you may owe refunds, interest, and penalties. Keep documentation.
You inherit the compliance obligations. The previous owner violations can become your problem. Before buying, ask for RAD registration history. If unregistered, you will need to register before raising rent — and you may need to address past violations.
Technically no — if the rent stays the same, no increase notice is required. However, DC law requires you to offer a lease renewal at least 90 days before expiration. Failure to offer renewal can be treated as a constructive eviction.
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