Can Landlords Raise Rent Mid-Lease in Washington?

If you’re renting in Washington State, you may be concerned about your landlord raising your rent before your lease ends. Understanding your rights is key to maintaining a stable living situation and responding appropriately if your rent does change unexpectedly. This article answers whether landlords can increase rent mid-lease, details state protections, and explains how to respond if you receive a rent increase notice.

Rent Increase Laws During a Lease in Washington

In Washington, the laws protect renters from sudden or unfair rent increases, especially when you have a signed lease agreement. The Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) is the primary legislation that sets out renters’ rights and landlords’ responsibilities in the state.^[1]

Can Rent Be Raised Mid-Lease?

No, in most cases, landlords cannot raise rent in the middle of a fixed-term lease. If you have a lease for a set period—such as 6 or 12 months—the rent amount is locked in by your contract for that term. Your landlord is generally only allowed to increase the rent at the end of your lease, when it’s time to renew, unless your lease specifically says they can increase it early and under what conditions.

• Fixed-term leases (e.g., 12 months): Rent is set for the lease period and cannot increase until the term ends.
• Month-to-month agreements: Rent can be raised with at least 60 days’ written notice.

This rule is enforced by the Washington State Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Program and, if disputes arise, the Washington Courts handle residential tenancy matters.^[2]

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Even at the end of your lease or on a month-to-month tenancy, landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice before increasing rent.^[1] The notice must:

• Be in writing and delivered to you directly or by mail
• Clearly state the new rent amount and when it begins

Seattle and some other cities have additional local rules, so check with your city government for more information.

What Forms Are Used for Rent Increases?

• Rent Increase Notice
  • Name: 60-Day Rent Increase Notice (No official form number)
  • When Used: This notice is used by landlords to inform tenants their rent will increase at least 60 days before the increase takes effect, required for all rent increases in month-to-month tenancies. It’s also used at the end of a fixed-term lease if the landlord is offering renewal at a higher rent.
  • Example: Your landlord mails you a notice stating your rent will increase from $1,200 to $1,300 starting in 60 days.
  • Sample Rent Increase Notice – WA Attorney General
• Request for Mediation (Optional)
  • Name: Dispute Resolution Request (Local forms vary)
  • When Used: If you believe the rent increase violates the law or your lease terms, you may contact the Washington Dispute Resolution Centers for free or low-cost mediation. Each center provides their own printable request form.
  • Find Your Local Dispute Resolution Center

What to Do If You Get a Mid-Lease Rent Increase

If you receive a notice that your rent will go up during a fixed-term lease, here’s what to do:

• Check your lease: See if it allows for rent increases during the term. Most do not.
• Confirm notice: Was notice written and at least 60 days in advance?
• Contact your landlord: Let them know if you believe the increase is not allowed. Keep all communication in writing.
• Seek help if needed: If your landlord insists, reach out to the resources listed below for support or to consider mediation.

Who Handles Disputes and Legal Complaints?

Disputes over rent increases and other rental issues are managed by the Washington Courts. Local Dispute Resolution Centers can also offer free or affordable mediation to help resolve disagreements with your landlord.

FAQ: Rent Increases in Washington

1. Can my landlord raise my rent before my lease ends?
   In most cases, no. Washington law protects tenants from mid-lease rent increases unless your lease includes specific language allowing it, which is rare.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give in Washington?
   Landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice before increasing rent, regardless of the amount.
3. Does a rent increase notice have to be in writing?
   Yes, all rent increase notices in Washington must be given in writing and delivered either in person or by mail.
4. What should I do if I get an illegal rent increase notice?
   Begin by letting your landlord know in writing that you believe the increase is not allowed. If the issue isn't resolved, contact a local Dispute Resolution Center or seek legal support.
5. Who do I contact for help if my landlord ignores the law?
   You can reach out to the Washington Attorney General’s office, a local Dispute Resolution Center, or your nearest courthouse for assistance.

Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

• Landlords cannot raise rent during a fixed-term lease unless your agreement specifically allows it.
• Any rent increase requires 60 days’ written notice.
• Resources such as the Attorney General, local dispute resolution centers, and the courts can help if you receive an improper rent increase.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Find a Dispute Resolution Center in Washington State
• Washington State Courts – Landlord/Tenant Cases
• Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)

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1. Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. Washington Attorney General—Landlord and Tenant Guide

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