Washington, D.C. rent control: allowed increase May 2026 – April 2027
Allowed increase for covered units: 4.1% (2.1% elderly or disabled) (May 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027). Previous period: 4.8% (2.5% elderly or disabled) (May 1, 2025 – April 30, 2026).
Checked against the official Washington, D.C. sources on November 8, 2026. Last site change: November 8, 2026 (changelog).
How the increase is set
General: Washington-area CPI-W plus 2% (2026: 2.1% + 2%). Registered elderly (62+) or disabled tenants: the lowest of the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment, the CPI-W or 5% (2026: 2.1%).
What else to know
- The lower elderly/disabled rate applies only if the tenant has registered that status with the Rent Administrator (Form 6).
- Increases at most once in 12 months, using DHCD Form 8.
Example
On a rent of $2,000 the most a covered unit can go up is $82, to $2,082 a month.
Which units are covered?
Rent-controlled units in D.C., generally in buildings built before 1976 that are not exempt (for example owners of four or fewer units who claim the exemption, or subsidized units).
Notice
Written notice on DHCD Form 8; see the D.C. rent increase law page for the notice period. District of Columbia rent increase law → See also notice rules by state.
Nearby: Montgomery County, MD rent control
Sources: Office of the Tenant Advocate: rent increase 2026 · DHCD Form 8