The bill amends the Manufactured/Mobile Home Landlord-Tenant Act, specifically RCW 59.20.390 and RCW 59.20.370, to modify the requirements for landlords regarding the notice of rent increases. It stipulates that landlords must provide tenants with a notice of rent increases in a specified format, which includes details about the increase and any exemptions claimed by the landlord. The bill clarifies that the notice requirement does not apply to subsidized tenancies where rent is based on tenant income or specific circumstances, excluding those with portable tenant-based vouchers or other affordable housing arrangements.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which landlords can increase rent, stating that increases cannot exceed five percent within any 12-month period unless an exemption applies. If a landlord increases rent beyond the allowed amount without an exemption, tenants are entitled to demand a reduction and may terminate their rental agreement without penalties. The bill also provides for legal recourse, allowing tenants or the attorney general to seek damages and attorney fees if landlords violate the rent increase laws, and prohibits landlords from reporting tenants to screening services for unpaid unlawfully increased rent.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 59.18.140, 59.18.720, 59.18.700, 59.20.390, 59.20.370
Substitute bill: 59.20.390, 59.20.370
Bill as passed Legislature: 59.20.390, 59.20.370
Session law: 59.20.390, 59.20.370