Rent Stabilization in Kent, Washington

Last updated: January 2026

Washington's statewide rent increase cap (HB 1217) protects tenants in Kent with rent increase limits and notice requirements.

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Key Takeaways

  • Coverage: All residential rentals subject to RCW 59.18 after 12 months of tenancy. No construction year cutoff.
  • Rent Increase Cap: 9.683% in 2026 (7% + CPI, max 10%). Applies after first 12 months.
  • Notice Requirement: 90 days written notice required.
  • Local Resources: Kent Housing Department, Washington State Commerce, Tenants Union

1. Overview of Rent Stabilization in Kent

Located in King County, Kent tenants benefit from Washington's statewide rent increase cap. Washington's Statewide Rent Increase Cap (HB 1217), effective since 2025, provides:

  • Rent increase caps – Annual increases limited to 7% + CPI (max 10%)
  • 12-month waiting period – No rent increases during the first year of tenancy
  • Notice requirements – 90 days written notice required before rent increases

This article provides an overview of how Washington's rent increase cap applies in Kent. It is not legal advice. For specific questions, consult with a qualified attorney or tenant counseling organization.

2. Who Is Covered in Kent?

Washington's rent increase cap (HB 1217) protects tenants in Kent by limiting how much landlords can raise rent each year. The law applies to all covered rental properties after the first 12 months, with no exemptions based on construction year.

Key Points:

  • No construction year cutoff – Unlike some states, Washington applies the cap to properties of all ages
  • 12-month waiting period – Rent increases are not permitted during the first 12 months of tenancy
  • Property types – Apartments, houses, condos, and other residential rentals are covered

Exemptions:

  • Properties exempt from RCW 59.18
  • Week-to-week tenancies (may be exempt)

3. Maximum Allowable Rent Increases

The maximum rent increase for 2026 is **9.683%**, calculated as 7% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the Seattle area, capped at 10%. This rate is published annually by the Washington State Department of Commerce.

2026 Rent Increase Cap:

  • Maximum increase: 9.683% (7% + CPI, capped at 10%)

Important Rules:

  • Only one rent increase per 12-month period is allowed
  • Landlords must provide at least 90 days written notice before any increase
  • The cap applies to tenants who have lived in the unit for at least 12 months
  • First-year tenants may see increases above the cap (but still need 90-day notice)

4. Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Landlords must provide at least **90 days written notice** before implementing any rent increase.

Notice Requirements:

  • Statewide: 90 days written notice required
  • Frequency: Once per 12-month period
  • The notice must include the amount of the increase, new rent amount, and effective date

5. 12-Month Waiting Period

One of the key protections under HB 1217 is the **12-month waiting period**. Landlords cannot increase rent during the first 12 months of a tenancy, regardless of when the property was built.

How It Works:

  • During your first 12 months, landlords cannot increase rent
  • After 12 months, rent increases are subject to the annual cap
  • This protection applies to all covered properties, regardless of age

6. Resources for Kent Tenants

If you're a tenant in Kent and have questions about your rights, consider these resources:

You can also use RentCheckMe to check if your building is likely covered based on property information.

7. Important Disclaimer

This article is a high-level overview of Washington's Rent Increase Cap (HB 1217) as it applies in Kent. It does not cover every exception and does not constitute legal advice.

Laws may change, and how they apply depends on your specific situation. For binding guidance, consult with a qualified attorney, the Tenants Union of Washington State, or Washington Law Help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum rent increase allowed in Kent?

Under Washington law (HB 1217), landlords in Kent can increase rent by a maximum of 9.683% in 2026 (7% + CPI, capped at 10%). This limit applies after you have lived in the unit for 12 months. Landlords must provide 90 days written notice before any rent increase.

How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase in Kent?

In Kent, landlords must provide 90 days written notice before a rent increase takes effect. The notice must include the amount of the increase, the new rent amount, and the effective date.

Can my landlord raise rent during my first year in Kent?

No. Under HB 1217, landlords cannot increase rent during the first 12 months of tenancy in Kent. After the first 12 months, rent increases are subject to the annual cap (9.683% for 2026).

Are all rental properties in Kent covered by the rent cap?

Most rental properties in Kent are covered by HB 1217 if they are subject to the Residential Landlord Tenant Act (RCW 59.18). Unlike some states, Washington does not exempt properties based on construction year. All covered properties are subject to the rent cap after 12 months of tenancy.

What happens if my landlord tries to raise rent more than the cap in Kent?

If your landlord attempts to raise rent above the cap in Kent, this may violate HB 1217. You should document the violation and contact the Washington State Attorney General's Office or a tenant advocacy organization for assistance.

Other Cities in Washington

Learn about rent stabilization in other Washington cities:

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