Washington Rent Increase Questions (2026)

Washington caps annual rent increases at about 10% and requires 60 days' written notice. Tap a question for the full plain-English answer.

• Can my landlord raise my rent in Washington?

  Yes — in Washington your landlord can raise your rent, but not by more than about 10% per year, and only after giving you 60 days' written notice.

• How much can rent be raised in Washington?

  Most rent increases in Washington are limited to about 10% per year for covered units. If your rent was $2,000, that means the most it could go up in one year is roughly $200.

• How much notice is required for a rent increase in Washington?

  Washington requires at least 60 days' written notice before a rent increase can start on a month-to-month tenancy. Verbal notice is not enough.

• Is a 10% rent increase legal in Washington?

  In Washington a 10% increase is generally within the legal range (the cap is 10%), as long as you get 60 days' written notice.

• Can my landlord raise rent without notice in Washington?

  No. Washington requires at least 60 days' written notice before a rent increase can start. If no notice was delivered, the new amount is generally not owed.

• Can my landlord raise rent during my lease in Washington?

  Generally no. In Washington, a fixed-term lease locks in the rent until the lease ends. A mid-lease increase is only allowed if your lease contains a specific clause allowing it.

• What if my rent increase is illegal in Washington?

  You generally do not owe the unlawful portion. Save the notice, respond in writing citing Washington's 10% cap and 60-day rule, and contact a local tenant-rights or legal-aid organization.

• Is there rent control in Washington?

  Yes — Washington has statewide rent control that caps annual increases at about 10% for most covered units.

• How often can rent be raised in Washington?

  In Washington, rent can generally be raised only once every 12 months for units covered by the 10% cap. Month-to-month tenants can also see increases with 60 days' written notice.

• Can my landlord raise rent after my lease ends in Washington?

  Yes. When your lease ends in Washington, your landlord can offer a renewal at a new rent, generally not more than 10% higher for covered units, as long as they give you 60 days' written notice.

Not legal advice. Consult a licensed Washington attorney for a binding opinion on your specific situation.