Washington State House Bill 1217, signed into law on May 7, 2025, introduces statewide rent stabilization measures aimed at protecting tenants and addressing housing affordability.
Key Provisions
- Rent Increase Cap: Annual rent increases are limited to the lesser of 7% plus inflation or 10% for most residential units. For manufactured and mobile homes, the cap is set at 5%.
- Notice Requirement: Landlords and/or Property Managers must provide at least 90 days' notice before implementing any rent increase.
- Eviction Protections: Tenants have a defense against eviction if the action is based on nonpayment of unlawfully increased rent.
- Exemptions: The law exempts certain properties, including:
- New residential constructions less than 12 years old.
- Owner-occupied triplexes and fourplexes.
- Units operated by nonprofits or public housing authorities.
- Enforcement: The Attorney General is authorized to enforce the law under the Consumer Protection Act.
Legislative Background
The bill, sponsored by Senator Emily Alvarado, passed the House with a 53-42 vote and faced significant debate in the Senate. After amendments and negotiations, a conference committee restored key tenant protections, leading to its final passage.
Support and Opposition
- Supporters: Housing advocates, including the Washington Low Income Housing Alliance, argue that the law provides necessary stability for renters facing escalating housing costs.
- Opponents: Landlord associations and some legislators contend that rent caps may deter investment in new housing developments and exacerbate the housing shortage.
Implementation
The law took effect immediately upon signing and is set to remain in place until 2045. Law Files WA
With this legislation, Washington becomes the third U.S. state to implement statewide rent control measures, following Oregon and California.