Washington's New Statewide Cap on Rent Increases

Washington caps rent increases

In 2025, Washington enacted a statewide limit on annual rent increases, making it one of a small group of states (with Oregon and California) to cap rent growth at the state level. The law limits how much a landlord can raise rent within a 12-month period and adds notice requirements.

Key points to verify

• The cap is tied to a percentage (and, in some versions, inflation), with a hard ceiling. Confirm the current percentage before issuing any increase — these figures are adjusted over time.
• Newer construction is typically exempt for a number of years after a certificate of occupancy.
• Manufactured/mobile-home lots may be treated differently.
• Proper written notice is required ahead of any increase.

What landlords should do

• Build the cap into your rent-increase planning and renewal notices.
• Document the property's age if you believe a new-construction exemption applies.
• Pair this with Washington's existing good-cause eviction rules.

This is general orientation, not legal advice — verify the current cap and exemptions, or consult a Washington attorney. See the Washington investor guide for the full picture.