The proposed bill seeks to enhance housing stability for tenants in Washington by implementing measures to limit rent and fee increases, improve transparency, and establish a landlord resource center. Key provisions include a cap on combined rent and fee increases to no more than five percent within any 12-month period, along with a requirement for landlords to provide written notice of any increases. The bill also introduces exemptions for certain properties, such as those with a certificate of occupancy issued within the last ten years or those governed by public housing authorities. Additionally, it prohibits landlords from imposing more burdensome terms on month-to-month rental agreements compared to longer-term leases and establishes penalties for landlords who violate these regulations, including damages for excess charges and reasonable attorney fees for tenants.

Moreover, the bill amends existing landlord-tenant laws to clarify conditions for terminating tenancies and introduces key definitions related to tenant displacement scenarios. It stipulates that landlords cannot evict tenants or refuse to renew tenancies without cause, except for specified reasons, and allows tenants to terminate their lease without penalty if rent is increased by 3% or more. The legislation also limits move-in fees and security deposits to one month's rent, mandates written receipts for deposits, and prohibits late fees for rent paid within five days of the due date. Overall, the bill aims to create a more equitable rental market by protecting tenants from unjust evictions and ensuring transparency in landlord-tenant relationships, with immediate effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 59.18.140, 59.18.200, 59.18.650, 59.18.270, 59.18.170, 59.20.090, 59.20.170, 59.20.060, 59.20.030