Washington Rent Control: Legislative Updates & What Renters Should Know

With rental affordability concerns rising across many U.S. cities, more Washington renters are asking: Will rent control become law in our state? This article explains the current laws, proposed changes for rent stabilization, and what renters should be aware of in 2024 and beyond.

Current Rent Regulation Laws in Washington

As of now, Washington State does not have statewide rent control. In fact, state law (RCW 35.21.830) prohibits cities and counties from enacting rent control or rent stabilization ordinances. Landlords are generally allowed to set rents based on the market, but they must still follow notice rules for increases and other tenant protections.

Official Tenant Rights and Protections

Although there is no formal rent control, Washington renters are protected under the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) which outlines notice periods for rent increases, rules for security deposits, and protections against retaliation. For example, landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice before any rent increase^[1].

• Rent Increase Notice: 60 days’ written notice is always required.
• Retaliation protection: Landlords cannot raise rent or evict a tenant for exercising their legal rights.
• Some cities (such as Seattle and Tacoma) have added extra advance notice rules or emergency measures—check your local ordinances for details.

Recent and Proposed Changes to Rent Control Law

Momentum for rent control in Washington has grown in recent years, with several legislative proposals introduced in the State Legislature. In the 2023-2024 session, House Bill 2114 sought to limit how much landlords could raise rent in one year and set additional protections for tenants. While the bill saw significant public debate, it did not pass.^[2]

• State law still blocks local cities from passing rent control ordinances.
• Proposals often suggest a maximum allowable yearly rent increase (for example, 5-7%).
• Future bills may revisit rent control as housing pressures continue—track the Washington State Legislature for updates.

Until new laws are passed, your main protection is timely notice and documentation under the current Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.

What to Do If You Receive a Rent Increase

If you get a rent increase notice, here are your rights and next steps:

• Make sure the notice is for at least 60 days before the increase takes effect.
• If your landlord did not provide proper notice, you can file a complaint with your city’s code enforcement officer or Washington Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Division.
• If you suspect discrimination or retaliation, reach out to the Washington State Human Rights Commission for guidance.
• Consider negotiating with your landlord in writing for a smaller increase or more time.

Important Forms for Washington Renters

If you wish to formally respond to a rent increase or report a violation, several official Washington forms and complaint processes may be useful:

• Tenant Complaint Form (Attorney General – Consumer Protection)
  When to Use: If you believe the landlord broke state notice or rent increase rules, submit this form to request investigation.
  Official Tenant Complaint Form
  Example: You receive a rent increase with only 30 days' notice (instead of 60). You can fill out this form online to open a case.
• Rental Agreement Addendum or Written Response
  When to Use: No formal state-issued form, but it’s best practice to reply in writing (email or letter) if you wish to object, negotiate, or document an agreement with your landlord. Learn your rights at the WA Attorney General’s Tenant Resources page.

Which Agency Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes?

In Washington, there is no single residential tenancy tribunal. Disputes are usually handled through local courts (district or superior court), but the Washington Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Division provides information, mediation, and complaint intake. If necessary, seek free legal help from sources listed in the support section below.

Relevant State Legislation

The key law is the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18). You can read the ban on local rent control (RCW 35.21.830) for more context.

1. How much advance notice do I get for a rent increase in Washington?
   Landlords must give you at least 60 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
2. Is Seattle or Tacoma allowed to adopt rent control?
   No. State law (RCW 35.21.830) preempts and blocks local rent control regulations. These cities can require more notice, but not rent caps.
3. What should I do if my rent is raised illegally?
   Document the notice and dates, politely notify your landlord in writing about the issue, and file a complaint with the WA Attorney General’s office if necessary.
4. How do I get legal help for a rent dispute?
   Contact local renter advocacy services or legal aid—see the support section below for links and resources specific to Washington.
5. Where do I find official Washington tenant forms?
   You can access the Tenant Complaint Form through the Attorney General's office and general guidance at the state landlord-tenant resource page.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you’re facing rental issues or want to understand changes in rent control laws, these resources can offer support:

• Washington Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Division — information, mediation, and complaint forms
• Washington LawHelp.org — free legal information and tenant guides
• Washington State Human Rights Commission — help with retaliation or discrimination
• Washington State Legislature: Bill Information — track proposed rent control legislation
• Local tenant unions and legal aid corners (check county or city websites for details)

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1. Office of the Washington State Attorney General - Landlord-Tenant Resources
2. Washington State Legislature - House Bill 2114 (2023-2024)

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