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.
Is Your Property Covered?
In DC, rent control generally applies to buildings built before 1975, unless you qualify for an exemption. The most common exemptions are:
- You own four or fewer rental units total in the city (and you’re not incorporated).
- Your unit is part of a federally or locally subsidized program.
- The property was built after 1975 or has gone through substantial rehab.
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.
How Much Can You Raise the Rent?
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.
Don’t Forget to File
This part trips up a lot of landlords: even if your property is exempt from rent control, you still need to:
- Register the unit with the city
- File your exemption form with RAD
- Renew your Basic Business License (BBL) regularly
Skipping these steps can lead to fines, or worse, your exemption status being revoked.
A Few Quick Tips
- Keep solid records. Rent increase notices, registration forms, licenses, it all matters.
- Double-check tenant status. Age and disability exemptions are real, and tenants are often better informed than landlords about them.
- Stay ahead of deadlines. DC can be strict about renewals and filings. Don’t wait until the last minute.
Final Thoughts
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.