When Landlords Can Pass-Through Costs and Raise Rent in Washington

If you're renting in Washington, unexpected rent increases can be stressful—especially when they're related to landlord expenses like property taxes, maintenance, or utility costs. Understanding the rules about "pass-through costs" is essential to know when your landlord can legally raise the rent and what rights you have as a renter.

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

Pass-through costs are specific fees or expenses that a landlord might try to charge tenants above the normal rent. These typically include:

• Property tax increases
• Utility cost hikes (e.g., water, garbage)
• Capital improvements (major repairs or upgrades)

In Washington, there are no statewide rent control laws that limit rent increases based on pass-through costs. However, landlords must still follow rules from the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) and local city regulations if they apply.

Legal Requirements for Rent Increases and Pass-Through Costs

Landlords in Washington can generally raise rent at the end of a lease term or with proper notice on month-to-month agreements. If your landlord wishes to recoup pass-through costs, they must:

• Give at least 60 days’ written notice before any rent increase takes effect (RCW 59.18.140)
• Specify the amount of the increase
• State when the new rent will begin

They cannot increase rent during a fixed-term lease unless your lease specifically allows for this—check your contract for any clauses about pass-through costs or surcharges.

City-Specific Rules: Are There Local Protections?

Some Washington cities have enacted additional regulations. For example:

• In Seattle, rent increases for passing through utility costs must be done using a ratio utility billing system (RUBS) with advance written notice. More details can be found on the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections site.
• In Bellingham and some other cities, there are requirements for detailed itemization when new costs are added.

Always check your local city’s housing authority for up-to-date protections.

Your Rights as a Renter When Facing Pass-Through Cost Increases

Renters in Washington have protections under state law and, sometimes, under local city ordinances. If you receive a notice about a rent increase tied to pass-through costs:

• Review the written notice and your lease carefully.
• If the required 60-day notice period has not been given, or the increase happens mid-lease without your agreement, you can dispute the increase.
• Contact your city or county’s rental housing office for help if you believe the increase is unfair or unlawful.

Key Forms and Practical Steps for Renters

If you need to dispute a rent increase or file a complaint related to pass-through costs, there are official forms and steps to follow:

• 60-Day Rent Increase Notice
  No specific state form number. Landlords must provide a written notice; you should request a copy if it is not provided. Example: If you receive verbal notice only, ask for a written document or email for your records.
  See the official notice requirements.
• Complaint to Washington Attorney General—Residential Landlord-Tenant
  Use the “Tenant Complaint Form” if you believe your landlord's rent increase or pass-through charge is unlawful.
  Example: A renter receives a rent increase with only 30 days’ notice and files this form online to request help.

Which Tribunal Handles Residential Tenancy Disputes?

In Washington, residential tenancy cases—such as disputes regarding rent increases—are usually overseen by the local County District or Superior Courts. For most renters, initial action starts with the Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program or, in Seattle, the Seattle Renting in Seattle program.

For full legal protection details, see the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).

Frequently Asked Questions: Pass-Through Costs in Washington

1. How much notice must my landlord give before raising rent in Washington?
   Landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice for any rent increase, including pass-through costs, in most cases.
2. Can my landlord increase rent during my fixed-term lease?
   No. Rent increases, including pass-through surcharges, cannot happen during a fixed-term lease unless your lease specifically allows for it.
3. What should I do if I think a rent increase is illegal or unfair?
   Document everything, review your notice and lease, and contact the Washington Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Program to file a complaint or get help.
4. Are utilities and other fees always considered pass-through costs?
   No. They count as pass-through costs only if your rental agreement allows extra charges for these items and the correct notice is given.
5. Which laws protect me from unfair rent increases in Washington?
   The Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) sets the main statewide rules.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

• Landlords can only raise rent for pass-through costs with at least 60 days’ written notice.
• Review your lease and city rules for local protections or additional requirements.
• If you think a rent increase is unlawful, use official resources like the Attorney General’s complaint form for help.

Knowing your rights helps protect you from unexpected or unfair cost increases as a renter in Washington.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program – Guidance, complaint forms, and education
• Seattle Renting in Seattle – Renter support and information for Seattle residents
• Washington State Courts Directory – Find your local district or superior court
• Read the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)

---

1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. Washington Rent Increase Notice (RCW 59.18.140)
3. Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program
4. Seattle Rental Housing Rules
5. Washington Attorney General’s Tenant Complaint Form
6. Washington State Courts Directory

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations