Washington HB 1217 Rent Cap, the New Rent Stabilization Rules for 2026
Washington HB 1217, signed in 2024, introduced the state's first statewide rent cap. Effective in 2025 (phased) and fully in 2026, Washington landlords face specific rules on how much and how often they can raise rent. The rules apply unless the unit qualifies for one of the exemptions.
The CPI + 7%, 10% max cap
Under HB 1217 (codified in the new RCW 59.18.700 series), annual rent increases are capped at the lower of:
- CPI for the region + 7%, or
- 10% flat.
The cap is absolute. No matter what CPI is, the max is 10%.
90-day advance notice at RCW 59.18.140
Landlords must give 90 days' written notice before any rent increase, up from the pre-HB-1217 30-day minimum. The 90-day rule is at RCW 59.18.140.
First-year prohibition
HB 1217 prohibits any rent increase during the first 12 months of a tenancy. The landlord cannot raise rent until the 13th month or later.
12-year CO exemption
Buildings with a certificate of occupancy issued within the last 12 years are exempt from the rent cap. The exemption is rolling, a building built in 2014 is exempt until 2026, at which point it becomes covered.
2040 sunset
HB 1217's rent cap is set to sunset on July 1, 2040 unless extended by the legislature.
Where to get a Washington notice
LeaseKit's Washington rent increase notice template applies the HB 1217 cap, the 90-day rule, the first-year prohibition, and flags the CO exemption. $29 one-time.
This post is informational. Washington rent regulation is new and evolving. For contested cases, consult a Washington-licensed attorney.