Landlord Insurance in Washington, DC

Washington, D.C. is one of the nation’s most competitive rental markets, attracting steady demand from government employees, students, and professionals. Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and Georgetown see consistent year-round occupancy, while surrounding areas in Northern Virginia and suburban Maryland provide strong opportunities for landlords looking for lower purchase prices and higher yields. Nearly 60% of households in the District are renter-occupied—one of the highest shares in the country—making it an appealing environment for property investors.

Here are a few key highlights for landlords in Washington, D.C.:

• Eviction laws: Landlords in D.C. must provide tenants with written notice before filing for eviction. The standard requirement is a 30-day notice to cure or vacate for most lease violations or nonpayment cases, although emergency and illegal-activity exceptions exist.
• Security deposits: D.C. limits security deposits to no more than one month’s rent. Landlords must hold deposits in an interest-bearing account and return them within 45 days of lease termination, along with an itemized statement of any deductions.
• Rent control: Washington, D.C. enforces rent stabilization for most properties built before 1976, limiting annual rent increases to the Consumer Price Index + 2%. Exemptions apply to newer or small owner-occupied buildings, so landlords should verify whether their property is covered.
• Landlord insurance: In a dense urban market like D.C.—where older rowhomes, shared walls, and frequent storm events pose additional risks—comprehensive landlord insurance helps protect against property damage, liability claims, and loss of rental income.