What is the maximum late fee in District of Columbia?

State law limits the fee to 5% of the monthly rent (D.C. Code § 42-3505.31). Charging above that is generally unenforceable.

Is there a required grace period in District of Columbia?

Yes — rent must be at least 5 days past due before a late fee can be charged under D.C. Code § 42-3505.31.

Where is this in District of Columbia law?

The controlling provision is D.C. Code § 42-3505.31. Legislatures amend these rules, so always confirm the current text via the official source linked above.

District of Columbia Late Fee Laws

Last reviewed: July 10, 2026

Maximum late fee

5% of monthly rent

Grace period

5 days

Statute

D.C. Code § 42-3505.31

District of Columbia caps residential late fees at 5% of the monthly rent under D.C. Code § 42-3505.31. A lease can agree to less, but a fee above the statutory limit is generally unenforceable no matter what the lease says.

Timing matters as much as the amount: rent must be at least 5 days past due before a late fee can be assessed. A fee charged inside that window isn't collectible in District of Columbia, even when the lease provides for it.

The District caps late fees at 5% of the full rent due and bars charging them until rent is five days late. Only one fee may be charged per late payment, no interest may be added to it, and it can't be deducted from a subsequent payment to manufacture a new default.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum late fee in District of Columbia?: State law limits the fee to 5% of the monthly rent (D.C. Code § 42-3505.31). Charging above that is generally unenforceable.
Is there a required grace period in District of Columbia?: Yes — rent must be at least 5 days past due before a late fee can be charged under D.C. Code § 42-3505.31.
Where is this in District of Columbia law?: The controlling provision is D.C. Code § 42-3505.31. Legislatures amend these rules, so always confirm the current text via the official source linked above.

This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — confirm current requirements for your jurisdiction before acting.

District of Columbia Late Fee Laws

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