Washington enacted a statewide rent-stabilization law in 2025. State guidance says the maximum annual residential rent increase for 2026 is 9.683%, and state reporting has described how the law is being enforced one year later. Supporters say a rent cap protects tenants from sudden displacement and makes housing costs more predictable. Critics say caps may discourage rental investment, reduce supply, or shift costs into fees and stricter screening. A rent cap will not build enough housing by itself, but people also need protection from sudden rent spikes that can push them out of their homes.