Washington state landlord-tenant law ensures protection to both the landlord as well as the tenant. With comprehensive rules and regulations, Washington State Landlord Tenant Law is one of the best ways to enhance and maintain the relationship between landlord and tenant. In this blog, we will be taking you through all the details and specifications with updated Washington State Landlord Tenant Laws and rights about this law. Keep reading further to know more about it.
Table of contents
Payment Clauses Under Washington State Landlord-Tenant Law
If the lease is longer than the period of 12 months, it is required to maintain a written tenancy agreement to avoid any kinds of misunderstandings. The landlord can ask for the payment in any appropriate form be it cash, cheque, or money order.
Rent Regulation
There are no current policies to limit the amount of rent charged by the landlord under Washington State Landlord Tenant Law. Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent for month-to-month leases. For longer leases, increases are generally governed by the lease terms. Seattle has its own laws. For example, in Seattle, landlords need to provide notice 60 days notice to increase the rent. Also, the landlord under the law is allowed to charge any amount for non-payment or late payment of the rent. However, bounced check fees are limited to $40 or the current value of the cheque.
Security Deposits
As per Washington State Landlord Tenant Law, there is no limit to the amount a landlord can charge for the security deposit. Generally, the amount of security deposits charged by the landlords in Washington is an amount equal to the rent of one month. Seattle is an exception where the amount of security deposit can’t be higher than that of one month’s rent.
Refund of Security Deposit
As per the Washington State Landlord Tenant Law, landlords must provide a written checklist of the property’s condition when collecting a security deposit. After the tenancy agreement ends, landlords have 21 days to return the deposit or provide an itemised list of deductions. The Deductions from the security deposit are allowed only for damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs if stipulated in the lease agreement. If the landlord fails to pay the security deposit within 21 days, the landlord will need to pay twice the amount and attorney’s fees for the tenant as well.
Rights and Responsibilities of Landlord and Tenant
One of the most important things while residing on rent in a foreign country is to maintain a good and healthy relationship with the landlord. And, for that one should follow the rights and responsibilities of the landlord and tenant with respect to Washington State Landlord Tenant Law.
Landlord’s Rights and Responsibilities
As per the Washington State Landlord Tenant Law,
- Landlords are required to keep rental properties in a habitable condition. This means ensuring that the property meets basic health and safety standards, including proper plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.
- Landlords can charge a security deposit, but they must follow specific rules for its handling.
- The security deposit must be kept in a separate account and returned within 21 days after the tenant moves out, minus any lawful deductions for damages or unpaid rent.
- As mandated under the Washington State Landlord Tenant Law, the landlords must provide written notice to tenants for various reasons, such as entering the property, terminating the lease, or increasing rent.
- The notice period varies depending on the type of action.
Tenant’s Rights and Responsibilities
According to Washington State Landlord Tenant Law,
- The tenants have the right to live in a property that meets all health and safety codes.
- If the landlord fails to maintain the property, tenants can request repairs and may have the right to withhold rent under certain conditions.
- Tenants are entitled to privacy and must be given proper notice (usually 48 hours) before the landlord can enter the rental unit, except in emergencies as mandated by Washington State Landlord Tenant Law.
- Also, it is the duty of the tenant as per the law to pay rent on time and in full according to the lease agreement. Failure to do so can result in late fees and potential eviction.
Recommended Read: Ready to know the ins and outs of student accommodation in the Lone Star State? Check out our ultimate guide to Texas landlord-tenant laws.
How to Break a Lease in Washington State (Legally)
Sometimes, you may need to leave your rented apartment early — maybe you’re moving for a job, transferring universities, or facing personal issues. In Washington State, there are legal ways to end a lease early without big penalties.
Conditions Where Tenants Can Break the Lease
You can legally break your lease if:
- You’re called for active military duty.
- Your unit is unsafe or violates health codes.
- The landlord enters without notice or harasses you.
- You’re a victim of domestic violence.
- The landlord fails to make essential repairs.
Early Termination Clauses
- Some leases include a “termination clause.”
- This lets you leave early by paying a fee (usually 1–2 months’ rent).
- Always check your lease before signing.
- If there’s no clause, negotiate with your landlord before planning a move.
- Get everything in writing to avoid confusion.
Notice Periods
- You must usually give 20 days’ written notice before moving out.
- Count back from the end of the month.
- Send the notice by email and a printed letter.
- Keep a copy of the notice as proof.
- If you’re breaking the lease for legal reasons, explain that in your notice.
Subletting Options
- Some landlords allow subletting — this means finding someone to take your place.
- You must get your landlord’s permission in writing.
- You’re still responsible if the sub-tenant doesn’t pay.
- It’s a good option if you’re leaving temporarily.
- Always use a written sublease agreement.
Legal Consequences of Breaking a Lease
- If you break the lease without a valid reason, your landlord can:
- Keep your security deposit.
- Charge you for unpaid rent.
- Take legal action.
- This could affect your credit score or rental history.
- Try to negotiate or offer to help find a new tenant.
- Know your rights before making a move.
Further Read: Feeling overwhelmed by California’s rental rules? Check out our student-friendly guide to California landlord-tenant laws and get the essential tips for your lease with ease!
Eviction Under Washington State Landlord-Tenant Law
Getting an eviction notice can be scary, especially for students living alone in a new country. But knowing your rights can help you respond calmly and legally.
Common Legal Reasons for Eviction
A landlord can evict you if:
- You don’t pay rent.
- You break the lease (e.g., keeping pets when not allowed).
- You cause serious property damage.
- You disturb neighbors or engage in illegal activity.
- Your lease ends and the landlord chooses not to renew.
Notice Periods Required
Landlords must give you:
- 14-day notice for unpaid rent.
- 10-day notice for violating lease terms.
- 3-day notice for illegal activities.
- 20-day notice to end month-to-month leases without cause.
Eviction Process Explained
- You’ll first get a written notice.
- If the issue isn’t fixed, your landlord can file a case in court.
- You’ll receive a court summons.
- If you don’t attend the hearing, the landlord wins by default.
- A sheriff may then come to remove you from the unit.
What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice
- Don’t ignore it — respond quickly.
- Talk to your landlord and try to resolve the issue.
- Pay any owed rent if possible.
- Seek legal help immediately (many services are free for students).
- Keep copies of all communication and documents.
How to Get Legal Help as a Student
- Contact your university’s legal aid or student union.
- Call Northwest Justice Project (free legal aid).
- Look up Washington LawHelp online.
- Visit a local housing rights organization.
- Never sign eviction papers without understanding your rights.
FAQs
Yes, landlords can charge a non-refundable application fee, but it must be reasonable and related to the tenant screening cost under the Washington State Landlord Tenant Law.
Landlords must follow the same eviction procedures year-round. However, local ordinances may provide additional protections during winter months, such as prohibiting evictions in extreme weather conditions.
As per law, tenants may withhold rent if the landlord fails to make necessary repairs after being given reasonable notice. However, tenants should follow legal procedures for this.
If you receive an eviction notice, review it carefully to understand the reason and the deadline for responding. If you believe the eviction is unlawful or incorrect as per the law, you may contest it in court. Seek legal advice immediately to understand your rights and options.
Retaliation by a landlord for exercising tenant rights, such as reporting unsafe conditions or joining a tenant association, is prohibited as per Washington State Landlord Tenant Law. If a tenant believes they are being retaliated against, they should document all interactions and seek legal advice. They may also file a complaint with local housing authorities.
Let them know in writing. If it’s not fixed within a reasonable time, you may be allowed to pay for repairs and deduct the cost from rent — but only after following the correct steps.
It depends on your lease. Some landlords allow subletting, but you must get their written approval. You’ll still be responsible for rent if your sub-tenant fails to pay.
Yes! You can contact Northwest Justice Project, Tenants Union of Washington, or your university’s legal help office. Most offer free advice for students.
Visit your county’s housing authority website or check WashingtonLawHelp.org. You can also find info through local tenant rights organizations or student housing offices.
Your landlord can start the eviction process. First, you’ll get a 14-day notice to pay or move out. If you don’t act, they can take you to court. Always talk to your landlord if you’re struggling.
Hope you liked reading about the Washington State Landlord Tenant Law. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal student accommodation abroad with ease.
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