Washington Rent Increase Rules
At a glance
Notice before a rent increase
Washington requires 90 days' written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
The notice must be in writing and state the new rent amount and the effective date. Verbal notice alone is not sufficient. If your landlord raises rent without providing the required 90-day written notice, the increase is not legally effective and you may continue paying your current rent until proper notice is given and the notice period runs.
Limits on how much rent can increase
Washington has a rent cap. Annual increases are limited to: 7% + CPI or 10%, whichever is less, per 12-month period; no increase in first 12 months of tenancy.
Washington enacted statewide rent stabilization under HB 1217 (signed May 7, 2025), capping annual rent increases at 7% + CPI or 10%, whichever is less, and prohibiting any increase during the first 12 months of tenancy. RCW 59.18.140 requires 90 days' written notice before a rent increase statewide. RCW 35.21.830 still preempts local rent caps (the HB 1217 cap is a statewide floor; cities cannot impose stricter caps).
Rent increases during a fixed-term lease
In Washington — as in every U.S. state — a landlord cannot raise rent during a fixed-term lease (such as a 12-month lease) unless the lease itself contains a rent escalation clause allowing it. Your rent is locked in for the entire lease term. At renewal, the landlord may propose a new rent amount; you can accept, negotiate, or choose not to renew.
Retaliatory and discriminatory rent increases
Even where no cap exists, landlords in Washington cannot raise rent in retaliation for a tenant exercising a legal right — such as complaining to a housing inspector, requesting repairs, or organizing with other tenants. Retaliatory rent increases violate state law and federal fair housing laws. Similarly, a landlord cannot target a rent increase based on race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or other protected classes.
Common questions about rent increases in Washington
Can my Washington landlord raise rent mid-lease?
No. Rent cannot be raised during a fixed-term lease unless the lease itself contains a rent escalation clause. The landlord can propose a new rent only when the lease renews or when you're month-to-month.
What happens if my Washington landlord doesn't give proper notice?
If your landlord raises rent without giving 90 days' written notice, the increase is not legally effective. You can continue paying the old amount until proper notice is provided and the notice period expires.
Does Washington have rent control?
Yes. Washington has rent control or stabilization: 7% + CPI or 10%, whichever is less, per 12-month period; no increase in first 12 months of tenancy. Check with your local housing authority for details.
Is the rent increase notice required to be in writing in Washington?
Yes. Washington requires written notice of a rent increase. Verbal notice alone is not sufficient. The notice should state the new rent amount and the date it takes effect.