District of Columbia Early termination (DV/military)

Can a tenant break a lease early for domestic violence or military service in District of Columbia?

A tenant who is a victim of an intrafamily offense (or the parent of a minor victim) is released from the lease by giving written notice with a protection order or a qualified third party's documentation. The request must be made within 90 days of the incident. Release takes effect 14 days after the landlord receives it, or when a new tenancy starts if sooner. Rent is prorated.

Verified Source: D.C. Code § 42-3505.07 · last checked 2026-10-15