Free Washington Lease Agreement
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Washington Lease Agreement Requirements (2026)
Every Washington residential lease must comply with state landlord-tenant law. Here are the key rules your lease must follow:
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Security Deposit Limit | No statutory limit |
| Deposit Return Deadline | 21 days |
| Late Fee Cap | No statutory cap |
| Grace Period | 5 days (effective 2024) |
| Landlord Entry Notice | 2 days notice |
| Rent Increase Notice | 60 days (statewide); up to 180 days in Seattle |
| Rent Control | 7% + CPI (9.68% for 2026) |
Key Washington Landlord-Tenant Laws
- HB 1217 — Rent Stabilization Act (Wash. Rev. Code §59.18.170 et seq. (as amended)) — Statewide rent cap (7% + CPI) and just cause eviction protections. Signed May 2025. New construction exempt for 12 years.
- Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Wash. Rev. Code §59.18.010 et seq.) — Comprehensive landlord-tenant law covering security deposits, habitability, eviction, and tenant rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rent cap in Washington?
HB 1217 caps annual rent increases at 7% plus the consumer price index (CPI). For 2026, this results in a 9.68% maximum increase statewide. New construction is exempt for 12 years from the certificate of occupancy.
Does Washington require just cause for eviction?
Yes. Under HB 1217, landlords must have just cause to evict tenants. Just cause includes nonpayment, lease violations, owner move-in, and substantial rehabilitation. No-cause terminations are no longer allowed for most tenancies.
What is the rent increase notice period in Washington?
The statewide minimum is 60 days written notice. Seattle requires 180 days — the longest in the nation. Seattle also requires EDRA relocation assistance for increases exceeding 10%.
What are the security deposit rules in Washington?
Washington has no limit on deposit amounts but requires return within 21 days of moveout. Landlords must provide a checklist at move-in and move-out. Wrongful withholding can result in 2x damages.
Learn more: Washington Landlord-Tenant Laws
