Washington, DC · Tenant screening

What can a landlord check about me in Washington, DC?

Most things, but not old eviction cases or a credit score alone.

Why, and the exact law

An eviction case that ended without a judgment against you, or was filed 3 or more years ago, can't count.

From D.C. Code § 42-3505.10, read Oct 6, 2026.
Show the law

“A housing provider shall not base an adverse action solely on a prospective tenant's credit score or lack thereof …”

D.C. Code § 42-3505.10 · code.dccouncil.gov

Applying? See all the limits

Who can help

  1. DC Office of the Tenant AdvocateDC Office of the Tenant Advocate
  2. Get free legal helpIf your landlord won't fix it.LawHelp.org/DC
Every rule here, word for word (1)

This page covers state law only. Cities with their own rules have their own pages.

Washington, DC lawIn force

DC tenant screening limits (eviction/lease-breach history, credit score)

What can a landlord check about me?

Most things, but not old eviction cases or a credit score alone.

An eviction case that ended without a judgment against you, or was filed 3 or more years ago, can't count.

The law, word for word

“A housing provider shall not base an adverse action solely on a prospective tenant's credit score or lack thereof …”

D.C. Code § 42-3505.10 · code.dccouncil.gov · Retrieved Oct 6, 2026

More about Washington, DC

Rental law by cityWhat's changing in Washington, DC

Information about the law, not legal advice.