What to Know When Moving From Rent Control to Market Rent in Washington

If you live in Washington and are concerned about your rent increasing from a controlled rate to the market rate, you are not alone. Understanding how this process works, what legal protections exist, and what notices your landlord must provide is critical for every renter facing a significant rent increase.

Understanding Rent Control, Rent Stabilization, and Market Rent in Washington

Washington state law currently does not have a statewide rent control or rent stabilization program for private residential housing. This means that most rentals are subject to market rate pricing. However, some cities or housing authorities may operate buildings with special rent protections, such as federally subsidized housing or income-restricted apartments. If you were living in a unit with controlled rent (due to a city ordinance, a special housing program, or a limited-duration agreement), your landlord may have legal rights to return your rent to the market level after the protection ends.

How Landlords Move Renters to Market Rent

In Washington, landlords must follow specific laws before they can raise rent beyond your current agreement or move you from a protected rent to a market rate:

• Notice Requirement: Landlords must provide written notice at least 60 days before raising rent or ending a rent control agreement.
• City Rules: Some cities (like Seattle) may have stricter requirements or additional tenant protections. Always check your local regulations as well.

Many renters experience uncertainty when a rent-controlled agreement ends. It's important to know that landlords cannot increase your rent without proper notice and must comply with all terms of your lease until it expires.

Your Rights When Moving to Market Rent

Here's what every tenant should know:

• Advance Written Notice: Your landlord must give you at least 60 days' written notice before a rent increase (from controlled rent to market rate, or any increase exceeding your current agreement).
• You are entitled to remain in your rental through the end of your lease term, unless you receive a legal eviction notice or choose to move voluntarily.
• Retaliation (such as raising rent because you complained about conditions) is illegal under RCW 59.18.240.

If you are a resident of subsidized or income-restricted housing, check with your building manager or a local housing authority about additional protections.

Official Forms and Notices

• 60-Day Notice of Rent Increase: No official statewide form is required, but any written notice from your landlord must include:
  • The new rent amount
  • The effective date of the increase (at least 60 days from delivery)
  • The address of the rental unit

  Example: Your landlord emails you a letter on May 1st stating that as of July 1st, your rent will increase to the new market amount. This fulfils the state's 60-day notice requirement. You can view official guidance on rent increase notices from the Washington Attorney General.

Always request any rent increase notice in writing and keep a copy for your records.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Washington?

If you disagree with your landlord about rent increases, notice requirements, or eviction risk, you can seek assistance from your local county court. Washington does not have a dedicated landlord-tenant tribunal, but the Washington State Courts are responsible for resolving residential tenancy disputes under the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)¹.

How to Respond if You Receive a 60-Day Rent Increase Notice

• Review the notice for accuracy and ensure it provides at least 60 days’ lead time.
• Ask your landlord for clarification if you feel the increase is unfair or retaliatory.
• Contact local renter support services if you need additional help.

FAQ: Rent Increases and Market Rent in Washington

1. Can my landlord increase my rent to any amount after my rent-controlled agreement ends?
   Washington law does not cap rent amounts, but your landlord must give at least 60 days’ written notice before any increase.
2. Are there any statewide rent control protections in Washington?
   No. Washington has not enacted statewide rent control. Some limited programs exist for subsidized or special-purpose housing only.
3. What can I do if I can't afford the new market rent?
   You may negotiate with your landlord, seek alternative housing, or contact local housing assistance programs for help.
4. How can I challenge a rent increase I believe is retaliatory or discriminatory?
   You can file a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s office or seek legal aid for further steps (see Resources below).

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

• In Washington, most rent increases—moving from rent-controlled to market rent—require at least 60 days’ written notice.
• Renters are protected against retaliation and discrimination under state law.
• Always keep a copy of all communications and reach out to official agencies if you need help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Washington Law Help – Housing
• Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
• Seattle Renting in Seattle Tenant Information (if you live in Seattle)
• Washington State Courts – Residential Dispute Information

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1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. Landlord-Tenant Information from the Washington State Attorney General
3. Seattle Renting in Seattle Tenant Resources

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