Changes in the Bellingham housing market have resulted in unusually low vacancy rates and a significant increase in rental costs. The current vacancy rate is approximately 1.79%. Incomes have not kept pace with rent increases.
To address these concerns, the City of Bellingham has enacted ordinances designed to provide some protection for vulnerable renters. The primary ordinances took effect on March 12, 2018, and apply to properties located in the City of Bellingham. An ordinance amending notice requirements was made final on March 13, 2023, and became effective on March 28, 2023.
Key Rental Protections
Resources
- Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center – (360) 676-0122 or wdrc@whatcomdrc.org
- Bellingham Housing Authority – (360) 527-4618 (for landlords interested in becoming a Housing Choice landlord) or bellinghamhousing.info@bwcha.org
- City of Bellingham Planning and Community Development Department – (360) 778-8300 or rentals@cob.org
- Ordinance 2018-02-004 | 4-page Handout on Ordinance 2018-02-004 (PDF)
- Ordinance 2023-03-007