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District of Columbia Late fee grace period

Last reviewed 2026-10-23

Is there a grace period before a late fee can be charged in District of Columbia?

5-day grace period (or longer if the lease allows). Late fees are capped at 5% of the rent due, must be stated in the lease, may be charged only once per late payment, and cannot be grounds for eviction.

Verified Source: D.C. Code § 42-3505.31 · last checked 2026-10-23

Related District of Columbia rules

Late fees

Only after rent is 5 days late (or a longer lease grace period); maximum 5% of the rent due, once per late payment; the lease must state the maximum fee, and a tenant cannot be evicted for an unpaid late fee.

Verified Source: D.C. Code § 42-3505.31 · last checked 2026-10-23 · Full District of Columbia late fees page

Eviction notice (nonpayment)

Notice of intent to file at least 10 days before filing a nonpayment eviction claim. No such notice, and no filing, if less than $600 is owed.

Verified Source: D.C. Code § 42-3505.01(a-1) · last checked 2026-10-23 · Full District of Columbia eviction notice (nonpayment) page

Same topic in neighboring states

All District of Columbia landlord-tenant law · District of Columbia landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Deposit return deadline · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone)

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