The DC Rental Housing Commission has released the new MAXIMUM rent increases for the rental year beginning on May 1, 2024. This applies to all rent-stabilized apartment buildings — those constructed before 1975. This includes 3003 Van Ness.

The maximum rent increase during the period May 1, 2024 to April 31, 2025:

• 4.9% for those under age 62

• 2.9% for those age 62 or older, or those with a disability

However, please note that the maximum two-year increase (last year plus this year) is 12%. So if you had a high rent increase last year — e.g., more than 7% — subtract that rent increase from 12% to see your maximum rent increase for the coming year.

For a slightly longer explanation of this, see additional information from the DC Office of the Tenant Advocate.

Another way to calculate your MAXIMUM rent increase for the coming year is to use the Rent Calculator from the Office of the Tenant Advocate. It’s a bit wonky, but you may find it useful.

Or read the original announcement by the DC Rental Housing Commission.

One more important point — beginning this year, landlords must give you 60 days notice before a rent increase is to go into effect.

The Van Ness South Tenants Association wants to make sure that all residents understand that these are the MAXIMUM allowable rent increases. The city forms that announce rent increases are misleading — they make it appear that these are MANDATED rent increases. This is not true. These are MAXIMUM rent increases. Smart renters will attempt to negotiate for a better deal in a slack market.