Passed in 2019 as the nation's first statewide rent control law, Oregon Senate Bill 608 impacts rental property operations in every municipality, including Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Gresham, and Oregon City. Understanding how SB 608 applies to 1–4 unit properties across the tri-county area is vital for avoiding costly legal challenges.
1. Annual Maximum Rent Increase Cap
SB 608 limits annual rent increases statewide. The cap is calculated annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 7%. Properties less than 15 years old are exempt, and all rent increase notices must be served in writing at least 90 days in advance.
2. The First Year of Occupancy Rule vs. Just Cause
During the first year of a tenancy, a landlord may terminate a tenancy without stating a cause, subject to local city ordinances such as Portland's Relocation Assistance rules. Once a tenant has resided in the property for one full year, the tenancy can only be terminated for Just Cause.
3. Qualifying Landlord-Reason Terminations
After the first year, a landlord can terminate a lease for intention to demolish or convert the dwelling, intention to execute major uninhabitable-during-work renovations, intention for the landlord or immediate family to move in, or acceptance of an offer to purchase from a buyer intending to occupy the home.
How PMNW Group Protects You: We track property construction dates, calculate exact allowable rent adjustments annually, and manage legal notices to ensure full compliance across all three local counties.