3 rules for unincorporated Whatcom County, Washington.
Verified from official government sources
Washington no longer leaves rent to the open market. Since HB 1217 took effect in May 2025, annual residential rent increases are capped statewide. For 2026 the ceiling is 9.683%, and it applies from Bellingham to Lynden, Ferndale, and unincorporated Whatcom County.
WA Dept. of Commerce, HB 1217 Landlord Resource Center (2026 rent increase cap)
The maximum annual rent increase percentage allowed for properties subject to Residential Landlord Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) unless specifically exempted as defined in RCW 59.18.700 between 1/1/2026 and 12/31/2026 is 9.683%.
Washington has statewide just-cause eviction under RCW 59.18.650. A Whatcom County landlord cannot end a tenancy or refuse to renew except for a legally listed reason, with proper written notice. Lockouts and utility shutoffs are illegal.
RCW 59.18.650(1)
A landlord may not evict a tenant, refuse to continue a tenancy, or end a periodic tenancy except for the causes enumerated in subsection (2) of this section and as otherwise provided in this subsection.
Bellingham requires every residential rental to register and pass a periodic safety inspection under its Rental Registration and Safety Inspection Program (BMC 6.15). Unincorporated Whatcom County and cities like Lynden and Ferndale run no equivalent registry.
City of Bellingham, Rental Registration and Safety Inspection Program (BMC Ch. 6.15)
Residential property owners in Bellingham must comply with specific life and fire safety standards per BMC 6.15 and are required to: 1. Register their rentals. 2. Get a safety inspection before renting a property.
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