Measure One (also known as the “Tacoma Landlord Fairness Code Initiative”) passed in the recent election and is expected to be enacted into law soon. Below is a short outline of some of the key provisions. We will post a more detailed analysis later. For advice about your circumstances, it is always best to consult with an attorney.
Rent increases.
Landlords must be in compliance with all federal, state, and local tenant protection laws before raising rent.
The landlord must use a rent increase form established by the City of Tacoma. Rent increases require two notices, one between 180 and 210 days before the rent increase takes effect, and the second notice 90 to 120 days before the rent increase takes effect. All rent increase notices must be served in the same strict legal manner as predicate notices (pay rent or vacate, etc.). For rent increases of 5% or more, the landlord must pay relocation assistance.
School-year and cold-weather eviction bans.
Tenants with school-age children or who work in a school or in childcare may not be evicted during the school year. No tenant may be evicted between November 1 and April 1, with some narrow exceptions.
Caps on charges.
Move-in charges may not exceed the first month’s income, a pet deposit may not exceed 25% of one month’s rent, and late fees are capped at $10 per month.
Additional tenant rights.
Tenants may rescind move-out agreements within 10 days. If the tenant was not represented by an attorney there is no time limit. Tenants also have expanded rights to bring an action in court against landlords for violations of the Tacoma code.
This short summary, or any information on this website, is not a substitute for legal advice.
