Washington Landlord-Tenant Law

Washington state has a booming economy, beautiful landscapes, urban environments, and a great culture. It is an excellent place for property investing, population growth and employment growth is on the rise. From Mt. Rainier to Puget Sound, Washington state is a place for everyone. They are modernizing their culture and economy as well – Washington state expects to be coal-free by 2025. For our recommendations on exactly where to invest in this state, take a look at our Washington state rental investment report – keep reading for a guide on Washington landlord-tenant law.

Laws that impact the rental market, landlords, and tenants are constantly being decided in states. Make sure you know what’s on your ballot – find Washington voting information here.

Washington State Renters’ Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

  • Disclose whether any fees are refundable in the lease
  • Provide mold education materials with new tenants
  • Return security deposits within two weeks
  • Tenants can sue landlords for only up to $5,000

When it comes to Washington state rental laws, there are a few specifics landlords need to know:

 

  1. Specific Disclosures – Landlords are required to disclose whether any fees are refundable in the lease. For example, security deposits or pet deposits that are refundable or nonrefundable need to be clearly written in the lease for clarity for both parties. 
  2. Mold Education – Landlords must provide educational materials on household mold along with the lease. Due to the often wet weather in the Pacific Northwest, mold growth can be common in homes which can cause respiratory issues and is dangerous for those who have mold allergies. Landlords are required to fix the problems that cause mold growth such as ensuring proper ventilation.
  3. Return of Security Deposit – Landlords must return the remainder of a tenant’s security deposit two weeks after move-out. The deposit may be the full amount or partial – if it’s partial the landlord must include the deductions and costs in a letter. 
  4. Small Claims Court – Tenants have the right to sue landlords for the return of the security deposit or for specific contractual violations for up to $5,000. Small claims courts are one of the most efficient ways for renters to recover money owed from landlords. 
  5. Special Protections – Like in many states, victims of domestic violence are protected by law and cannot be evicted out of rentals because of their situation. For more details on what constitutes domestic violence, see our resources at the bottom of this page.

Washington State Landlord-Tenant Laws and Landlord Rights

  • Raise rent with a 30-day notice
  • Give a three-day notice before filing for eviction
  • Give a two-day notice to access unit
  • Make sure to give proper seven-day notice before disposing of items in abandoned rentals
  1. Rent Raises – Landlords may raise the rent on the properties, so long as they give a 30-day notice. Rent control is illegal in Washington state which means landlords can raise the rent as much as they deem appropriate as long as tenants are given the proper notice.
  2. Evictions – Landlords may file for eviction so long as they give tenants a three-day notice to pay or move out. There are different types of eviction notices, but overall the notice must be served in the proper way and the tenant must comply.
  3. Access to Unit – Landlords have the right to access the unit at any reasonable time, so long as they give proper notice of two days. Remember, landlords cannot enter a tenant’s unit without consent – except in the case of emergencies.
  4. Abandoned Property – Landlords can dispose of items in an abandoned property so long as they give proper notice of seven days. Landlords can claim abandonment when the tenant leaves for a long period of time and does not pay rent – landlords are allowed to enter the unit and remove tenant’s belongings.

FAQ’s: Landlord-Tenant Laws in Washington State

Below are answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to Washington state landlord-tenant laws.

How Long Does a Landlord Have to Make Repairs in Washington State?

Landlords must respond and fix problems in the rental unit within 10 days of being noticed. This varies from state to state and in some it’s 30 days – Washington state landlords need to be prompt in fixing issues within ten days or they will be violating the state law.

Can a Landlord Break a Lease in Washington State?

The Landlord-Tenant Act in Washington only allows tenants four reasons for breaking a lease which include a call to military service, a repair concern that the landlord isn’t fixing within the specific time-frame, protections for domestic violence survivors, or a tenant is threatened by a neighbor with a deadly weapon. Landlords cannot break the lease –  landlords do have the right to evict tenants if the lease has been violated.

Can a Landlord Enter Without Permission in Washington State

No, a landlord cannot enter without the tenant’s consent in Washington state. Landlords have the right to enter the renter’s home for necessary repairs or inspections that were agreed upon. The only exception to this rule is in case of an emergency or if a tenant has abandoned the rental unit. 

Can a Landlord Require Renters Insurance in Washington State?

Landlords can require renters insurance, but only at lease signing or renewing. However, even if it’s not, renters insurance can be highly recommended by landlords to protect your property and potential losses that could happen.

Are Landlords Required to Provide Fire Extinguishers in Washington State?

No, landlords are not required to provide fire extinguishers, but they are required to provide written fire protection and fire safety information to tenants. Tenants should help maintain smoke detectors.

Due Diligence and Washington State Renters’ Rights

TurboTenant has utilized many municipal sources along with official state statutes in order to compile this information to the best of our ability. However, local laws are always in flux and landlords and tenants alike should be sure to do their due diligence and consult legal help when it’s needed. We hope the following list can serve as a valuable resource and allow you to succeed as a landlord or tenant in Washington state. Be sure to take proper precautions when it comes to finding the top candidates for your unit by utilizing our online rental application and tenant screening services.

Disclaimer: TurboTenant, Inc does not provide legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. All users are advised to check all applicable local, state, and federal laws and consult legal counsel should questions arise.

General Washington State Landlord-Tenant Law Resources

Fair Housing Resources for Washington State

Other Washington State Resources

Washington State Associations

Federal Fair Housing Resources

Washington State City-Specific Housing Resources

Seattle

Spokane

Tacoma

Vancouver

Bellevue

Kent

Everett

Renton

Federal Way

Yakima

Spokane Valley

Pullman

Thurston County – Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater

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