District of Columbia Eviction Notice

Notice to pay rent or quit, cure a violation or vacate — with your state's exact notice period, required wording and service rules.

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District of Columbia rules that this document follows

Nonpayment of rent30 days — 30-Day Notice to Pay or VacateSource: D.C. Code § 42-3505.01(a-1)
Lease violation30 days — tenant may cureSource: D.C. Code § 42-3505.01(b)
Unconditional quit30 days — Court determination that tenant performed an illegal act within the unit (30-day notice to vacate); drug haven under § 42-3602Source: D.C. Code § 42-3505.01(c)
Permitted service methodspersonal, substituted, posting and mailing, certified mailSource: D.C. Code § 42-3505.01(a-1)(3); D.C. Super. Ct. L&T R. 4
Required wordingNotices to vacate must be in English and Spanish (or the tenant's primary language on request), include the Office of the Tenant Advocate contact information, and state the specific ground for eviction. A nonpayment notice must state the total amount owed and that eviction cannot be filed if the balance is paid within 30 days.
StatuteRental Housing Act of 1985, D.C. Code § 42-3505.01; 14 DCMR Ch. 43

Rules current as of 2026-09-07. Statutes change; verify before relying on them.

How to use this Eviction Notice in District of Columbia

Serve the notice exactly as District of Columbia law allows and count the days correctly — the deadline is the first thing a judge checks. Do not include late fees in a pay-or-quit amount unless your state permits it. If the tenant pays the full amount in time, the notice is satisfied.

Keep a copy of the notice and the signed proof of service; you will attach both to the court complaint if the tenant does not comply.

Frequently asked questions

How many days' notice for nonpayment of rent in District of Columbia?

30 days (30-Day Notice to Pay or Vacate), D.C. Code § 42-3505.01(a-1). Properties covered by the CARES Act require at least 30 days.

How must the notice be delivered?

personal, substituted, posting and mailing, certified mail. D.C. Code § 42-3505.01(a-1)(3); D.C. Super. Ct. L&T R. 4 Keep the completed proof of service — the court will ask for it.

Can I change the locks or shut off utilities instead?

No. Self-help eviction is illegal in every state and exposes the landlord to damages. After the notice period expires you must file an eviction case in court.

Related documents

Other states

FormsByState provides self-help document templates and general information, not legal advice. We are not a law firm. For advice about your situation consult a licensed attorney in your state.