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WashingtonLast reviewed April 2026

Is there rent control in Washington?

Quick answer

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

Step-by-step answer

  1. Step 1

    What that means for you

    Most residential units in Washington are covered by the 10% cap, though newer buildings and some single-family homes are exempt. Read your lease or ask the landlord in writing whether your unit is covered.

  2. Step 2

    How to find your local rules

    Search your city name plus "rent stabilization ordinance" or "rent control." A local tenant-rights or legal-aid organization can confirm whether your building is covered.

Plain English recap

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

Check your specific situation

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Where do you rent?

Free legal help in Washington

Free legal help in Washington

Walk through three quick steps to find the right tenant-rights program for your situation.

What do you need help with?
When you call, ask about: a tenant intake appointment

Say: "I'm a tenant and need help understanding my rights and options."

Bring: your lease, recent rent receipts, and any letters or notices from your landlord.

State listings sourced from the federal Legal Services Corporation (LSC) grantee directory. Educational information, not legal advice or endorsement.

Other common questions about Washington

Can my landlord raise my rent in Washington? →How much can rent be raised in Washington? →How much notice is required for a rent increase in Washington? →Is a 10% rent increase legal in Washington? →Can my landlord raise rent without notice in Washington? →Can my landlord raise rent during my lease in Washington? →What if my rent increase is illegal in Washington? →How often can rent be raised in Washington? →Can my landlord raise rent after my lease ends in Washington? →
Read the full Washington rent-increase guide →

State source

RCW §59.18 (HB 1217)

Educational only — not legal advice. Educational only — not legal advice. This page summarizes statewide rules and may not reflect city ordinances, your specific lease, or recent changes. For your situation, consult a licensed attorney or your local tenant-rights organization.
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