Washington 2026 rental law changes are shaping how landlords manage rent increases, renewals, and tenant communication throughout the state. Whether you own a rental in Seattle, the Eastside, Pierce County, or Snohomish County, these new rules will influence your cash flow and long-term planning. This guide breaks down the most important updates in clear, simple language so landlords can understand what is required and how to avoid costly violations.
If you want personalized guidance on compliance, renewal strategy, or rental pricing, you can connect with SJA Property Management for a full review of your property and tenant situation.
1. Rent Increase Rules in Washington for 2026
Washington does not have a statewide rent cap for 2026. HB 2114, the bill that proposed statewide limits on rent increases, did not pass in the 2024 legislative session.
Because no statewide cap exists, there is no legally defined maximum percentage that landlords must adhere to at the state level.
What does exist today
While there is no statewide rent cap, landlords must still follow:
– Proper rent-increase notice requirements
– Documentation and disclosure rules
– Local regulations that may be stricter than state law
Seattle, in particular, has additional tenant-protection laws that go beyond state requirements.
The most up-to-date information can always be reviewed through the Washington State Legislature.
What this means for landlords
- You must provide proper written notice for any rent increase (Seattle requires 180-day notice)
- You must clearly document and deliver the increase
- Renewal planning should begin earlier, especially in markets with strong tenant-protection laws
- If operating in Seattle, you must also comply with all local ordinances, which can significantly impact timelines and processes
2. Updated Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
Washington now requires landlords to give advance written notice before raising rent. Most cases require:
- At least 90 days notice for standard rent increases
- More than 90 days for increases approaching or reaching the state cap
- Clear written documentation of the new amount and start date
Seattle already required 180 days notice for certain increases, so Seattle landlords must follow whichever law is more protective for tenants.
You can view Seattle’s rental housing policies at Seattle.gov Renting in Seattle.
3. New Rules on Fees, Deposits, and Move-In Costs
Washington 2026 rental law also clarifies limits and requirements on:
- Security deposits
- Holding fees
- Non-refundable fees
- Payment structures at move-in
Landlords must:
- Provide a written deposit statement
- Give tenants a move-in condition checklist
- Store deposits in a separate account
- Return deposits within the required time frame
Seattle landlords must also comply with the RRIO program, which can be reviewed at Seattle RRIO.
4. Updated Screening and Application Rules
Several Washington cities already restrict how landlords can screen tenants. The 2026 state law formalizes and expands some of these requirements.
Landlords must follow rules related to:
- Screening fee disclosures
- Application records
- Criminal history screening limits
- Adverse action notices
- Income and credit evaluation requirements
For Seattle rentals, the Fair Chance Housing Ordinance still applies. Details are available on the Seattle Fair Chance Housing page.
5. Required Disclosures for 2026
Washington landlords must provide tenants with certain disclosures at move-in and renewal.
This includes:
- Safety information
- Ownership or management details
- Utilities billing information
- Deposit documentation
- Lease term and rent amount
- Notice of rights and responsibilities
For landlords who prefer a legally compliant leasing process, SJA Property Management prepares and delivers all required documentation on your behalf.
6. Eviction and Termination Rules in 2026
Washington strengthened eviction standards, requiring:
- Clear written notice
- Reason-based termination
- Strict adherence to timelines
- Proper delivery of documentation
The state continues to support mediation programs, and local courts increasingly require evidence of communication and attempts to resolve issues before filing.
Noncompliance can delay the eviction process and result in additional penalties.
7. How the 2026 Law Impacts Your Rental Strategy
The Washington 2026 rental law affects:
- Renewal strategy
- Cash flow planning
- Rent increase timing
- Long-term returns
- Maintenance and capital planning
- Selling vs. holding decisions
For example:
- If you want to increase rent, you must plan months earlier
- If your expenses rise faster than the rent cap, budgeting becomes critical
- Tenant retention becomes more valuable
- Lease structure must be more detailed and compliant
Landlords who treat their rental as a structured business will adjust smoothly. Those who self manage without support often face compliance issues.
8. How Landlords Can Stay Fully Compliant in 2026
To operate successfully under Washington 2026 rental law, landlords should:
✓ Document everything
Rent increases, notices, communication, deposit records, screening criteria, and maintenance logs.
✓ Use attorney reviewed leases
Generic leases are no longer enough.
✓ Give notice earlier than required
This protects you from timing mistakes.
✓ Understand both state and city rules
Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Renton, and Tacoma may all have different local requirements.
✓ Work with a property manager
SJA helps you stay compliant while protecting your rental income and tenant relationships.
Need Help Navigating Washington’s 2026 Rental Laws?
The Washington 2026 rental law brings significant changes, but with the right strategy, landlords can continue to operate profitably and confidently. If you want support with renewals, pricing, documentation, or compliance, the experts at SJA Property Management are here to guide you.
👉 Request a Free Rental Analysis
👉 Schedule a Compliance Consultation
👉 Learn More About SJA’s Full Service Property Management
With proactive planning and expert support, you can stay compliant while protecting your long-term investment.
