If you are a renter in the city of Kirkland, you have protections under Ordinance O-4810. Here’s a summary of what you should know about your rights as a tenant:
Rent increase notices:
- Your landlord must tell you, in writing, if they plan to increase your rent.
- For increases over 3%, landlord must give you 120 days’ written notice.
- For increases over 10%, landlord must give you 180 days’ written notice.
- Subsidized Housing: If your rent is based on your income, the landlord must give you 30 days’ written notice before raising it.
Move-in fees:
- Before you move into a new unit, the landlord cannot ask for more than one month’s rent in move-in fees and deposits (e.g. cleaning fees), except for some subsidized housing.
- If your lease is for six months or more, you can spread out move-in fees and deposits over six months.
- For leases under six months or month-to-month, you can spread them over two months.
Good to know:
- If your landlord breaks any of these rules, your may seek a remedy through the court (likely small claims court).
What to do next or how to get help:
- Send a written letter to your landlord with a copy of the ordinance language.
- Find information and self-help resources at washingtonlawhelp.org.
- If you are a low-income household, free legal help is available in Kirkland in partnership with the city of Kirkland. Contact ELAP for help.
Thank you to the City of Kirkland for their support of this program.
