District of Columbia Statewide Rule
District of Columbia Landlord Entry Notice Requirements
Key Facts
- Notice required
- 48 hours' written notice (§ 42-3505.51)
- Lawful hours
- 9 a.m.–5 p.m., not Sundays or federal holidays
- Emergency entry
- Permitted without notice
- Notice method
- Written; email/text allowed with written acknowledgment
Summary
D.C. has an express statutory entry rule. Under D.C. Code § 42-3505.51 a housing provider must give at least 48 hours' written notice and may enter only for a reasonable purpose, at a reasonable time, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. and not on a Sunday or holiday, except in emergencies.
"Reasonable time" means a time between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., and not on a Sunday or federal holiday, or at another time agreed upon by the tenant. "Reasonable notice" means written notice provided to the tenant at least 48 hours before the time the housing provider wishes to enter the unit.
Full Breakdown
D.C. Code § 42-3505.51 allows entry only 'for a reasonable purpose, at a reasonable time, and after having provided the tenant with reasonable notice,' except in an emergency 'for the protection or preservation of the premises, or for the protection and safety of the tenants or other persons.' Reasonable notice means written notice 'at least 48 hours before' entry, or a shorter period the tenant agrees to in writing; notice may be by email or text if the tenant acknowledges it in writing. A 'reasonable time' is between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. and not on a Sunday or federal holiday. Reasonable purposes include inspections, repairs, services, and showings to prospective buyers or tenants.
Violations & Penalties
On a tenant's showing of unlawful entry or repeated unreasonable demands for entry, any court of competent jurisdiction may enjoin the housing provider and assess damages for breach of the tenant's right to quiet enjoyment of the premises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does D.C. require landlords to give notice before entering?
Can a D.C. landlord enter without notice in an emergency?
Sources
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