Housing

HB 2699 changes Washington's landlord-tenant laws by requiring landlords to provide 60 days' written notice before ending fixed-term leases without cause (for leases between 6-12 months). It also extends notice periods to 30 days for nonpayment evictions in federally subsidized housing or properties with federally backed mortgages. The bill affects landlords and tenants statewide, particularly those in federally assisted housing programs or properties with federal loans. Key mechanisms include stricter notice requirements for evictions, clearer definitions of "covered" properties, and new rules for lease terminations without cause. These changes aim to provide greater stability for tenants while clarifying landlord obligations under state law.

This bill requires private developers using federal low-income housing tax credits to formally transfer home ownership to tenants through programs like rent-to-own or eventual tenant ownership. Developers must set aside funds, clearly inform tenants of ownership rights, and complete transfers on time per agreements. The state housing agency must monitor progress annually, investigate tenant complaints within six months, and impose penalties - including losing future tax credits - for violations. It directly affects developers participating in these federal programs and tenants seeking homeownership opportunities.

HB 2647 requires homeless housing grant recipients in Washington to submit annual plans by December 1 each year, detailing projected numbers of people helped and estimated spending per person. It mandates annual audits by the state auditor to verify funds are used for authorized purposes, track administrative costs versus service spending, and confirm grantees meet their goals. Grantees must provide detailed financial records and outcome data (including how long individuals remain housed) by June 1 each year, with non-compliance risking loss of future funding. The bill directly affects homeless housing organizations receiving state grants and aims to improve transparency and accountability in how public funds are spent.

HB 2118 prevents homeowners' associations in Washington from imposing stricter rules on unit or lot owners than those in place when the owner purchased their property, unless the owner agrees in writing. Owners claiming this protection must request and pay to record an exception documenting their original restrictions. The law does not apply to rules required by law, and new buyers generally cannot use this protection unless they inherited the property or bought it through foreclosure. The bill expires January 1, 2028, and affects all common interest communities (like condos and planned developments) statewide.

HB 2265 requires landlords in Washington state to allow tenants to install portable air conditioners or evaporative coolers (like window units or floor models) without restriction, unless specific safety or structural concerns apply. Landlords may only prohibit such devices if installation violates building codes, damages property, exceeds electrical capacity, or conflicts with window egress requirements - prioritizing tenants with disabilities requiring cooling. The bill mandates landlords provide written lease notices detailing tenant rights and restrictions, and shields landlords from liability for tenant-installed device issues. This directly affects all residential tenants in Washington, particularly those in buildings without permanent AC during extreme heat events.