Washington’s rent increase laws for 2026 cap hikes at 9.683% for most residential tenants under HB 1217, effective statewide since May 2025. Landlords must provide 90 days’ written notice, with local rules like Seattle’s 180-day requirement potentially stricter. Tenants gain protections against excessive raises, but exemptions apply to newer buildings and nonprofits.
2026 Rent Cap Details
The cap equals 7% plus Seattle-area CPI (2.683% for 2026), not exceeding 10%—published annually by Commerce on June 1. Applies after a tenant’s first 12 months; no increases allowed sooner. For 2025 (through Dec. 31), the limit was 10%; notices served now trigger the 2026 rate if effective post-January 1.
Notice Requirements
Mandatory 90-day advance written notice for any raise, delivered clearly with new amount and date—no 60-day option remains. Seattle demands 180 days for increases over 10% under local ordinance, overriding state minimums. Incentives limited; long-term leases can’t exceed 5% discount without cap compliance.
Exempt Properties
- Buildings constructed after 2018 (15-year exemption window).
- Nonprofits, public housing, dorms, and owner-occupied single-family homes (with disclosure).
- Hospitals, nursing homes, and transient lodging.​
Local rent stabilization (e.g., Seattle, Tacoma pilots) may add layers but can’t exceed state caps.​
Tenant Rights
No retaliation for disputes; Attorney General enforces via fines up to $5,000 per violation. Tenants can terminate early if raises violate caps, with 30 days’ notice. Fees/deposits also capped indirectly through fair practices. Check Commerce’s Landlord Resource Center for CPI updates and forms.
Key Comparison: Caps by Year
| Year | Max Increase | Notice Period |
|---|
| Year | Max Increase | Notice Period |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 10% | 90 days |
| 2026 | 9.683% | 90 days min. |
| 2027 TBD | 7% + CPI (≤10%) | 90 days min. |
Action Steps
Review lease for effective dates; document notices. Use state resources at commerce.wa.gov for verification. Contact tenant unions or legal aid if over-limit—triple damages possible for willful violations. Local variations demand city-specific checks, especially in King County.
SOURCES :
- https://www.warealtor.org/about-us/contact-us/news-media/blogdetails/articles/2025/07/31/washington-law-imposes-rent-caps-effective-immediately
- https://propertymanagersseattle.com/washington-rental-law-compliance-guide/
