Back to all states
Washington Tenant Rights
High-protection state
Rent ControlJust Cause RequiredSOI Protected
Security Deposit Limit
No limit
Return: 30 days
Nonpayment Notice
14 days
Right to cure: Yes
Just Cause Required
Yes
Key Tenant Rights in Washington
- Just cause required statewide
- Rent control: 7% + CPI or 10% cap
- No rent increases in first 12 months
- 90-day retaliation presumption
- 2-day entry notice required
- 90-day notice for owner move-in
Rent Control
Annual Increase Cap
7% + CPI or 10% (whichever is lower)
HB 1217 effective May 7, 2025. No increases allowed during first 12 months.
Common Eviction Defenses in Washington
Lack of just cause
Improper notice (wrong period, wrong form)
Retaliation (90-day presumption)
Unlawful rent increase
Habitability violations
Key Statutes
Landlord-Tenant Law
RCW 59.18
Eviction Procedure
RCW 59.12; 59.18.650
Legal Aid in Washington
Northwest Justice Project
888-201-1014
Get Your Washington Response Kit
Personalized documents and strategy for your specific situation.
Get Started