Can a Washington landlord raise rent during a fixed-term lease?
Generally no. A fixed-term lease in Washington locks the rent amount for the lease term. A landlord cannot raise rent during a fixed-term lease without the tenant's written agreement, regardless of whether the market rent has changed. On a month-to-month tenancy or after the fixed term expires, the landlord may increase rent with the required advance notice. Washington HB 1217 (2024) requires 90 days advance notice for any rent increase, prohibits any increase during the first 12 months, and caps annual increases at the lower of CPI + 7% or 10% flat. Buildings under 12 years old are exempt. The rent cap framework sunsets July 1, 2040.
Source: RCW 59.18.140 (90-day advance notice for any rent increase, HB 1217)
This is an informational answer based on RCW 59.18.140 (90-day advance notice for any rent increase, HB 1217) as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a Washington-licensed attorney.