Did you know... October 18, 2021

RENT INCREASES IN SEATTLE

The bill the Seattle City Council recently passed requiring 180 days’ notice for rent increases takes effect next month.  The relocation-assistance requirement takes effect in July 2022.

Any notice of rent increase requires specific language, font size and formatting: 

RIGHT TO LEGAL COUNSEL: CITY LAW PROVIDES RENTERS WHO ARE UNABLE TO PAY FOR AN ATTORNEY THE RIGHT TO FREE LEGAL REPRESENTATION IN AN EVICTION LAWSUIT. If you need help understanding this notice or information about your renter rights, call the Renting in Seattle Helpline at (206) 684-5700 or visit the web site at www.seattle.gov/rentinginseattle.

If the increase will take effect July 1, 2022, or later and is for 10% or more, there are more requirements, including method of delivery. In addition, the notice must include a packet about the new economic displacement relocation assistance program. This has not yet been developed by Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) but is expected in the next six months.

We are here to help you and your clients with all aspects of the rental market. Please contact us for further assistance! 

Nothing found herein should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a legal opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of law. You should not rely solely on this information. We encourage our clients to work with a lawyer experienced in commercial and/or residential real estate matters as they can be complicated and confusing.