Updated April 09, 2024
A Washington D.C. sublease agreement is a rental contract used when a tenant (sub-lessor) rents their residence to a subtenant (sub-lessee). The sub-tenant pays rent directly to the original tenant, who, in turn, pays rent to the landlord. In a sublease arrangement, the original tenant remains obligated under the terms of the original lease until it ends.
Right to Sublet
Under Washington DC law, landlords may prohibit subletting as long as the prohibition is included in the lease. If subletting is permitted with the landlord’s consent or if the lease is silent regarding subletting, the landlord may require that a prospective subtenant meet the landlord’s rental qualifications, provided that the landlord furnishes guidelines to the tenant upon request.[1]
When a landlord’s permission must be obtained to sublet, a Landlord Consent Form can be used.
Short-Term (Lodgings) Tax
In Washington D.C., a short-term rental (STR) is a fee-based accommodation of 30 nights or fewer within the primary residence of a host’s home while they are present. Provided that the host is present, there is no limit on the number of stays allowed during a calendar year.
A vacation rental is a type of short-term rental where the host is not present. Vacation rentals cannot exceed 90 total nights per calendar year, and each rental must not exceed 30 continuous nights.[2]
Short-term rentals in Washington D.C. are subject to the 14.95% Hotels/Transient Accommodations tax.[3]
Related Forms
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