The proposed bill seeks to strengthen tenant protections in Washington State by implementing stricter regulations on rent increases and enhancing tenant rights. It requires landlords to provide a written notice of at least 180 days and no more than 220 days before any rent increase exceeding five percent above the base rent. Tenants will have the right to terminate their tenancy without penalty upon receiving such notice, given they provide at least 20 days' notice for month-to-month tenancies or 45 days for fixed-term tenancies. The bill also prohibits landlords from charging tenants for the service of these notices and allows tenants to seek damages if they are charged rent in violation of these provisions.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify landlord responsibilities and tenant rights, including stipulations that late fees cannot exceed 10% of the rental amount or $75 total for late payments. It establishes that landlords must provide a minimum of 60 days' written notice for rent increases, with exceptions for subsidized tenancies, and prohibits arbitrary evictions without mutual consent. The legislation also mandates that rental agreements include specific terms regarding rent payment and guest parking rules, while ensuring that any provisions waiving tenant rights or imposing excessive fees are unenforceable. Overall, the bill aims to create a more equitable rental market by limiting excessive rent increases and protecting tenants from unjust eviction and fees.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 59.18.140, 59.18.650, 59.18.170, 59.18.230, 59.20.090
Substitute Bill: 59.18.140, 59.18.650, 59.18.170, 59.18.230, 59.20.090, 59.20.060, 59.20.070