Landlord Entry Laws in District of Columbia

How much notice does a landlord have to give in District of Columbia?

Under D.C. Code § 42-3505.51, landlords in District of Columbia must give at least 48 hours' advance notice before entering your rental unit for non-emergency purposes. The statute specifically requires this notice to be in writing — oral notice alone does not satisfy the requirement.

Even with proper notice, entry is restricted to reasonable hours.

What is your landlord allowed to enter for in District of Columbia?

Under D.C. Code § 42-3505.51, permitted entry reasons in District of Columbia include:

• Repairs and maintenance
• Inspections
• Showing to prospective tenants
• Showing to prospective buyers
• Agreed-upon services
• Court order
• Emergencies

What counts as an emergency in District of Columbia?

Emergency entry permitted without notice for protection or preservation of the premises or the safety of tenants or others.

What are your remedies if your landlord enters without notice in District of Columbia?

If your landlord violates entry rules in District of Columbia, your remedies under D.C. Code § 42-3505.51 may include:

• Court order stopping future violations (injunction)
• Right to terminate the lease
• Actual damages
• Attorney's fees and court costs

In practice, start by documenting the unauthorized entry (photos, texts, a written log), then send a written objection citing the statute. If violations continue, consult a local tenant-rights attorney or your state's housing court.

Important District of Columbia-specific notes

Under D.C. Code § 42-3505.51 (enacted by the 2016 Residential Lease Clarification Amendment Act), a housing provider may enter only for a reasonable purpose, at a reasonable time, and after providing reasonable notice. 'Reasonable time' is defined as between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on any day other than Sunday or a federal holiday. 'Reasonable notice' is defined as WRITTEN notice given at least 48 hours in advance — notice may be delivered by email or text message if the tenant acknowledges in writing; otherwise paper notice is required. Permitted purposes include keeping the premises safe, inspections, repairs, decorations, alterations, improvements, necessary services or maintenance, showings to prospective purchasers/mortgagees/tenants/workers/contractors, and government-ordered work. DC's Office of the Tenant Advocate provides additional assistance.