Rent Stabilization in Seattle, Washington

Last updated: January 2026

Washington's statewide rent increase cap (HB 1217) protects tenants in Seattle 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: 180 days written notice required (Seattle has extended 180-day requirement).
  • Local Resources: Seattle Housing Department, Washington State Commerce, Tenants Union

1. Overview of Rent Stabilization in Seattle

Located in King County, Seattle 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 – 180 days written notice required before rent increases

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

2. Who Is Covered in Seattle?

Washington's rent increase cap (HB 1217) protects tenants in Seattle 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

For 2026, the maximum allowable rent increase in Seattle is **9.683%** (7% + CPI, maximum 10%). This cap is determined annually by the Department of Commerce using Seattle-area inflation data.

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 180 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 180-day notice)

4. Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Seattle tenants receive additional protection with a **180-day notice requirement** for rent increases, providing more time to prepare than the 90 days required statewide.

Notice Requirements:

  • Statewide: 180 days written notice required
  • Seattle: 180 days written notice required (local ordinance)
  • 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

HB 1217 establishes a **12-month waiting period** before rent increases can take effect. This means new tenants in Seattle are guaranteed stable rent for their first year.

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 Seattle Tenants

If you're a tenant in Seattle 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 Seattle. 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 Seattle?

Under Washington law (HB 1217), landlords in Seattle 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 180 days written notice before any rent increase.

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

In Seattle, landlords must provide 180 days written notice before a rent increase takes effect. Seattle has an extended notice requirement of 180 days. 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 Seattle?

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

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

Most rental properties in Seattle 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 Seattle?

If your landlord attempts to raise rent above the cap in Seattle, 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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