Is there a rent freeze in Washington state?
Henry Morales
Published Apr 02, 2026
Rent increases allowed under Washington’s new eviction moratorium. Gov. The new rules, which took effect at midnight Wednesday, protect indebted renters from eviction for nonpayment of rent accrued between Feb. 29 2020 and July 31, 2021, on the condition that they apply for rent assistance.
Can I evict a tenant now in Washington state?
Evictions for things other than rent are allowed again. Landlords must follow the rules to give proper notice. The legislature also made major changes to housing law. Visit Washington State New 2021 Landlord/Tenant Legislation.
When can landlords evict Washington State?
The law changed in 2019 to give tenants more time to pay what they owed in rent, from 3 days to 14 days. If the tenant has not paid what is owed within 14 days, the landlord can file an eviction lawsuit (Unlawful Detainer).
How much notice does a landlord have to give in Washington?
1) Give your landlord at least 20 days written notice. The law requires that month-to-month tenants give landlords at least 20 days written notice before vacating their units. If you are unsure about what kind of rental agreement you have, see more details in Rental Agreements.
Is it legal to raise rent in Washington state?
Because rent control is illegal in Washington State (RCW 35.21. 830) landlords can raise the rent as much as they want as long as they comply with the appropriate notice period and have not issued the notice to discriminate or retaliate against the tenant.
How can I break my lease legally in Washington state?
The best protection for tenants breaking their leases is to get something in writing and signed by the landlord agreeing upon a mutual termination of the lease that releases the tenant from any further financial obligation and guarantees a return of the deposit according to the terms set out in the lease.
Can landlords charge late fees during Covid-19 Washington State?
Late fees, interest or any other charges associated with non-payment of rent for all rent due between February 29, 2020 and March 31, 2022 are prohibited.
What are my rights as a renter in Washington state?
Pay rent and any utilities agreed upon. Keep the apartment clean and sanitary. Comply with the requirements of city, county, or state regulations. Pay for fumigation and/or damage to the dwelling.
How can I break my lease without penalty in Washington state?
How to Break a Lease with No Penalty Fees in Washington
- Consider other options for getting out of your lease early.
- Figure out if you can break your lease under Washington law.
- Re-read your lease agreement.
- Negotiate with your landlord.
- Move out and hope your landlord re-rents quickly.
- Make it official with paperwork.
How much does it cost to break a lease Washington?
These clauses typically allow tenants to end their lease early by providing advance notice and paying a fee, such as one month’s extra rent. There is no set amount for what the termination fee can be, but it generally must be reasonable and not penalizing.
How do you pay off rent debt?
The Rental Debt Snowball Plan
- Save cash for down payments.
- Purchase several income properties using conservative, low-interest loans.
- Save 100% of the real estate income plus extra savings from a job.
- Use all savings to apply towards one of the loans each month until one loan is paid early.
How much can landlord increase rent in Washington state?