Updated March 22, 2023
A Washington D.C. standard residential lease agreement is a document that creates a tenancy arrangement where the landlord allows the tenant to use space in return for monthly rent payments. The tenant will usually be screened prior to signing a lease with the employment and credit information to be verified. Once approved, the landlord will issue a written lease to be signed by both parties. After signing, the landlord will be owed first month’s rent and a security deposit (if any).
Laws – Title 42, Subtitle VII, Chapter 32 (Landlord and Tenant), Chapter 14-3 (Landlord and Tenant)
Handbook – Washington DC (Tenant Survival Guide)