Short answer
48 hours' written notice before non-emergency entry
When: At least 48 hours before each non-emergency entry
Except in an emergency, enter only for a reasonable purpose, at a reasonable time, after written notice at least 48 hours ahead (or a shorter time the tenant agrees to in writing).
""Reasonable notice" means written notice provided to the tenant at least 48 hours before the time the housing provider wishes to enter the unit or a shorter period of time as agreed to by the tenant in writing."
code.dccouncil.gov
"a housing provider may enter a rental unit during a tenancy only for a reasonable purpose, at a reasonable time, and after having provided the tenant with reasonable notice."
code.dccouncil.gov
Source: code.dccouncil.gov · Last verified 2026-10-20 · Confidence: high · Full rule details
48 hours' written notice before non-emergency entry Verified
Deadline: At least 48 hours before each non-emergency entry
Except in an emergency, enter only for a reasonable purpose, at a reasonable time, after written notice at least 48 hours ahead (or a shorter time the tenant agrees to in writing).
Applies to: any number of units · Layer: District of Columbia · Topic: Notice before entry
Who it covers: Email or text counts as written notice, but if the tenant does not acknowledge it, give a paper notice. A shorter period is allowed only if the tenant agrees in writing.
""Reasonable notice" means written notice provided to the tenant at least 48 hours before the time the housing provider wishes to enter the unit or a shorter period of time as agreed to by the tenant in writing."
code.dccouncil.gov
"a housing provider may enter a rental unit during a tenancy only for a reasonable purpose, at a reasonable time, and after having provided the tenant with reasonable notice."
code.dccouncil.gov
Notes: D.C. Code § 42-3505.51.
Last verified 2026-10-20 · Confidence: high · Status: verified · Report a correction