Security deposit laws in District of Columbia

What to do if your District of Columbia landlord won't return your deposit

• Confirm the 45-day window has passed since you provided a forwarding address.
• Document the unit's move-out condition with photos and any walk-through notes.
• Send a formal demand letter citing District of Columbia's deposit return deadline and statutory damages.
• If the landlord ignores your demand, file in small claims court — District of Columbia allows up to 3x damages for wrongful withholding.