Evicting a bad tenant in District of Columbia costs ~$14,715.
How District of Columbia handles evictions
Strong tenant protections; expect 3–6+ months for contested cases.
Most of that loss is preventable.
Bad tenants almost always leave a paper trail — the problem is that most landlords don't check carefully. Here's what a proper screening catches before you sign the lease.
District of Columbia eviction cost FAQ
How much does it cost to evict someone in District of Columbia?
A typical contested eviction in District of Columbia costs around $14,715 all-in: a $15 filing fee, roughly 3 months of lost rent ($7,200 at a typical $2,400/mo), plus legal fees, property damage beyond the deposit, and turnover costs. Uncontested cases cost less.
How long does an eviction take in District of Columbia?
About 90 days (~13 weeks) on average from notice to lockout. Strong tenant protections; expect 3–6+ months for contested cases.
How much is the eviction filing fee in District of Columbia?
$15, filed with the D.C. Superior Court (Landlord & Tenant Branch). Service, writ, and execution fees are typically extra and vary by county/court.
What court handles evictions in District of Columbia?
Evictions in District of Columbia are handled by the D.C. Superior Court (Landlord & Tenant Branch).
Sources & methodology
Filing fees and timelines reflect the D.C. Superior Court (Landlord & Tenant Branch) and public tribunal fee schedules; cost figures are estimates compiled from public court schedules, Eviction Lab, and state guides — actual costs vary by county, contest status, and market conditions.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney for your specific situation.