What notice is required for a rent increase in Washington state senior housing?

Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice for rent increases in most senior rentals in Washington, though federally subsidized housing may require longer notice.

Can a landlord refuse to make disability accommodations?

No. Washington and federal law require landlords to allow reasonable accommodations for renters with disabilities, including seniors. You may request changes in writing.

Where can seniors file a complaint for discrimination?

You can file a housing discrimination complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission or HUD.

What should I do if repairs are not made promptly?

Submit a written repair request and keep a copy. If your landlord does not respond within the required time, you may file a complaint in court or contact the Attorney General’s office for help.

Senior Renters’ Rights and Housing Protections in Washington State

Special Housing Types & Situations Washington published June 21, 2025

Washington State provides special housing protections for seniors to help them feel secure in their homes. Knowing your rights as a senior renter can help you address rent increases, maintenance problems, and prevent unfair evictions under Washington law.

Who Qualifies as a Senior Renter in Washington?

Most protections specific to "senior housing" in Washington apply to renters aged 62 or older, or those living in households with at least one person 62+.

Key Senior Housing Protections in Washington

Washington law guarantees certain protections for senior renters—especially in properties designated for older adults or under federally subsidized programs.

Eviction Protections for Seniors

Extended Notice Periods: Landlords must provide at least 20 days’ written notice for month-to-month tenancy terminations. In subsidized senior housing, different and longer notice periods may apply.
Reasonable Accommodation: Landlords are required to provide reasonable accommodations for disabilities under both state and federal law. This applies for changes to rules or physical space so that seniors with disabilities can use their home equally.
No Retaliation: It’s illegal for landlords to evict, raise rent, or otherwise retaliate against seniors for asserting their legal rights or contacting authorities about poor living conditions.

Regulation of Rent Increases

For market-rate senior housing, Washington law requires at least 60 days’ written notice before most rent increases (RCW 59.18.140).
In subsidized senior communities (such as those funded by HUD), stricter rent control limits and formal notice requirements usually apply.

Special Maintenance and Habitability Rights

Senior renters have a right to safe, sanitary, and well-maintained homes, as guaranteed to all tenants under Washington’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.
Landlords must respond promptly to urgent repair requests (generally within 24–72 hours for essential services).

Washington senior renters should always put all requests for repairs in writing, keep a copy, and note the date for their records.

Essential Official Forms for Senior Renters

Request for Reasonable Accommodation (No Form Number)
When to Use: If you need a change to your building’s rules or physical space due to a disability. For example, asking for a grab bar in the bathroom or permission for a service animal.
How to Obtain: Typically, you will write a letter to your landlord; some housing providers may have their own forms. Template and guidance available from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Notice of Rent Increase (No Form Number)
When to Use: This is issued by your landlord and must state the new rent amount and take effect at least 60 days after you receive it. You do not complete this—but if you receive one, you can check details or respond in writing if you have concerns. Official guidance at the Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant page.
Repair Request Letter (No Form Number)
When to Use: To formally request that your landlord address a repair or maintenance issue. Must be in writing and dated for protection. Template available via Washington State Attorney General.
Complaint Form: Discrimination in Housing (No Form Number)
When to Use: If you believe you’ve been discriminated against due to age, disability, or another protected status. File with the Washington State Human Rights Commission.

Always make and keep copies of all written correspondence and know official response times under state law.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Washington?

The Washington court system oversees housing disputes. Local district or superior courts typically handle landlord-tenant cases. Find your local courthouse and relevant forms on the Washington Courts portal.

Relevant Washington State Tenancy Legislation

FAQ: Senior Housing Rights in Washington

What notice is required for a rent increase in Washington state senior housing?
Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice for rent increases in most senior rentals in Washington, though federally subsidized housing may require longer notice.
Can a landlord refuse to make disability accommodations?
No. Washington and federal law require landlords to allow reasonable accommodations for renters with disabilities, including seniors. You may request changes in writing.
Where can seniors file a complaint for discrimination?
You can file a housing discrimination complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission or HUD.
What should I do if repairs are not made promptly?
Submit a written repair request and keep a copy. If your landlord does not respond within the required time, you may file a complaint in court or contact the Attorney General’s office for help.

Key Takeaways for Senior Renters in Washington

Senior renters are protected by specific notice and eviction safeguards under Washington law.
Always respond to notices in writing and request repairs or accommodations as soon as possible.
Discrimination and retaliation are illegal—resources exist for filing complaints and getting support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Washington Courts – Find your local court for rental disputes.
Washington State Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Resources
Washington State Human Rights Commission – Housing discrimination complaints.
Washington Law Help: Senior Citizens' Residential Rights
HUD Washington: Renting and Senior Housing Programs

RCW 59.18, Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, Washington State Legislature
RCW 59.18.140, Rent Increase Notices, Washington State Legislature
RCW 49.60, Law Against Discrimination, Washington State Legislature
HUD: Reasonable Accommodation Guidance
WA Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Information
WA Human Rights Commission: File a Complaint