What counts as a rent increase in Washington?
Anything that increases the tenant's monthly cost: base rent, parking fee, storage fee, pet rent, amenity fee, utility surcharge if previously included, or removal of a previously bundled service (gym, internet, water). Each requires the same advance notice (RCW 59.18.140 (90-day advance notice for any rent increase, HB 1217)). Bundling these into "rent" then raising them all together is the same as a rent increase. Cap calculations apply to the total change. Washington courts read attempts to disguise rent increases (e.g. "convenience fee") strictly against the landlord.
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.