Washington Rent Control Bill Moves to Senate with Key Amendments
One of the most hotly debated issues this legislative session has involved ESHB 1217 which would enact rent control regulations across Washington State. This bill passed out of the House of Representatives on Monday, March 10th by a vote of 53 – 42. While the bill did move out of the House, several amendments were made to the bill as it is presented to the Senate. The amended bill includes:
- Removal of Consumer Protection Act (CPA) enforcement
- Inclusion of a Right to Cure over Attorney General enforcement of the provisions
- Removed a cap on late fees
- Removed a cap on move-in fees and deposits
- Reduced the required notification period for rent increases from 120 down to 90 days
- Removed a statutory “model lease agreement” and Department of Commerce resource center
- Extended an exemption from rent controls for new construction from 10 years to 12 years
CLICK HERE to review a full list of amendments
CLICK HERE to read the amended bill as passed by the House
Washington REALTORS® is continuing to work on this issue and additional updates will be shared with the membership as it becomes available.