Tenant Protections 

Potential Residential Tenant Protection Measures 

As our region faces rising rents and a lack of affordable housing options, the Bothell City Council has prioritized policies that strive to result in a variety of housing types that are affordable, abundant, and accessible for all Bothell residents.   

Specifically, the City of Bothell is currently considering ways to improve housing stability and better protect renters. Reducing the risk of potential homelessness from evictions is important to our community members who rent their homes and the overall well-being of our community.  

Regional Tenant Protection Measures  

Many cities in the area have enacted local tenant protections in their communities above what is already required in the Washington State Residential Landlord-Tenant Act RCW Ch. 59.18.  Bothell is studying these measures, but is also open to suggestions to measures or ideas not previously seen in other cities.  

Regional Renter Protections - Comparison Chart by Cities 


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UPCOMING ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

  1. Renters 
  2. Property Owners
  3. Key Dates 

Renter Initial Feedback 

Over the last year and in our recent community needs assessment, we have heard from many renters in our community. When asked during the assessment about potential measures, renters strongly supported longer notice for rent increases and a cap on move-in fees and security deposits. They also supported more community education on renter's rights and disclosure of additional fees beyond rent. Although generally supported, rent due date adjustments and late fee caps were lower in priority. 

Renters often request some type of rent control; however, rent control is prohibited by statute, and therefore, the City of Bothell is not considering such measures.

If you did not complete the survey during the needs assessment, or, have additional feedback on potential provisions, please let us know with an email to: anand.manthripragada@bothellwa.gov. You can also sign up for future meetings on this topic. Stay tuned for future engagement opportunities.