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Washington State New 2021 Landlord/Tenant Legislation
A summary of recent changes to landlord-tenant laws in Washington state. #6305EN
Your rights as a tenant in Washington State
Explains residential tenants and landlords' rights and responsibilities in Washington. #6300EN
Can My Landlord Do That?
General information about what a landlord legally can and cannot do to a tenant. #6306EN
Can my landlord raise my rent? By how much?
State law lets your landlord raise the rent if they give you enough notice about it. Get the details here. #6342EN
New Washington State Law: Landlords must give a "good" reason to end a tenancy or not renew a lease
Find out about a new law that requires landlords to evict or refuse to renew a rental agreement for specific reasons only. #6345EN and #6346EN.
How to interact with your landlord to avoid legal trouble
If you are a renter having problems with your landlord, learn some tips, where to get additional legal information, and where to go if you need legal help. #6336EN
Can I change the date my rent is due?
You can now ask your landlord to change the date your rent is due. Learn why you might want to do this, and how to do it. #6343EN
Landlord-Tenant Issues for Survivors of Domestic Violence
Learn about how the law can protect you if you are a tenant AND a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment or stalking. #6304EN
My landlord enters my rental unit without my permission
Find out what you can do if your landlord comes in and out of the rental unit, without written notice or asking permission. #6325EN
I live in a trailer, motor home, or fifth wheel in an RV park. I pay rent for the lot. Do I have rights?
Find out when you might have additional legal rights if you live in an RV you own in a manufactured/mobile home park where you rent the lot. #6560EN
My landlord locked me out: What can I do?
Find what you can do if you got locked out even if you had no intention of moving. #6316EN
Tenants' Rights: Moving Out
If you are a tenant thinking about moving out of your rental, know your rights and responsibilities. #6371EN
Tenants are Protected from Discrimination Based on Source of Income
Find out how makes it is illegal for landlords in Washington state to discriminate against tenants and would-be tenants based on their source of income, and what you can do if it happens to you. #6323EN
2020 Changes to Washington’s Landlord/Tenant and Eviction Laws
Read about changes to Washington state's landlord tenant law that took effect June 11, 2020. #6351EN
My landlord shut off my utilities!
Find out what you can do if your landlord just shut off your utilities to try to force you to move. #6318EN
Tenants can now pay most move-in costs in installments
State law now lets tenants pay certain move-in costs on a payment plan. #6344EN
Reasonable Accommodations & Modifications: A Guide for Residents with Disabilities
A guide for residents with disabilities. #8408EN
Tenants’ rights: The place I’m living in has been condemned
Find out your options if your landlord has been notified that your rental home will be condemned or will be unlawful to occupy. #6384EN
Public Utilities
General information about your rights when dealing with public utilities. #0700EN
Video - Sexual Harassment in Housing is Illegal
Sexual harassment by landlords and property managers is illegal! Tenants in this US Dept. of Justice video bravely share their stories about being harassed in their home by landlords.
I need to respond to an eviction lawsuit as soon as possible
If you got legal papers from your landlord called a Summons and Complaint for Unlawful Detainer, read this and try to talk to a lawyer right away. #6309EN
A Guide for Immigrants, Limited English Persons and Their Advocates to Federally Subsidized Housing
A detailed guide for immigrants and non-English speakers to federally subsidized housing programs. #8151EN
How do I sue in Small Claims Court?
In Small Claims Court, you can sue for up to $10,000. This is meant to be a quick, cheap way to resolve a dispute you could not otherwise settle. It is not complicated. Lawyers generally cannot take part. There are no juries, motions or objections. There is only a small charge for filing a lawsuit. You can get a trial date much sooner than in other courts. Most trials last about 20 minutes. #9940EN
2022 Changes to Washington State’s laws affecting tenants
Two new laws affecting tenants in Washington State went into effect in June, 2022. Landlords cannot require tenants to pay electronically (they must accept checks and money orders for rent). Also, landlords may offer tenants the option to pay a monthly fee instead of a security deposit before moving in. #6317EN
Did my landlord illegally end my tenancy or evict me and what can I do about it?
New Washington state law expands on what a wrongful eviction is and makes clear that a court can hold a landlord liable to a tenant in such cases. #6906EN
Eviction Assistance and Protections for Seattle Renters
Learn about Seattle's ongoing eviction protections and where Seattle renters can get free legal help and rent assistance.
Getting Your Stuff Back
You should read this if someone else has property that is yours and you want to get it back. This may have happened because someone took something of yours without your permission or because you let someone borrow something, but they refused to return it. #6312EN
I live in a manufactured/mobile home park. Can the park owner/landlord change the park rules?
If you own your mobile home but rent the space it sits on, learn more about mobile/manufactured home park rules and whether/when/how the landlord can change them. #6514EN
I live in a manufactured/mobile home park. Can the park owner/landlord raise the rent, and by that much?
If you own your mobile home but rent the space it sits on, state law lets your landlord raise the rent if they give you enough notice about it. Get the details here. #6512EN
I live in a motel or hotel. The owner is threatening to kick me out!
For anyone who’s been living in a motel or hotel since the pandemic started in March 2020. #6902EN
New Washington State law: Eviction Resolution Pilot Programs (ERPPs) and right to an attorney for tenants
Find out about a new law that establishes mediation for those behind on rent because of COVID-19 and find more information the right to a free lawyer for low-income tenants facing eviction. #6347EN
Tenant Talks: Know Your Rights for Renters
Learn more about new laws and current protections for renters.
What are my rights in transitional housing?
Find out when you can be evicted from and other information about transitional housing programs. #6904EN
Deposits
General information about the rental deposit process and links to applicable laws and related resources.
I’ve moved out. My former landlord says I owe damages.
It is important to dispute in writing damages you are not responsible for. Sample letters to the landlord included. #6372EN
Tenants can now pay most move-in costs in installments
State law now lets tenants pay certain move-in costs on a payment plan. #6344EN
Getting Your Security Deposit Back
Advice and instructions on how to get your security deposit back from your landlord. Learn the difference between damages the landlord can charge you for versus normal wear and tear. Includes forms you can use. #6370EN
Letter to Landlord for Return of a Security Deposit
Self-help forms and instructions on LawHelp Interactive. Use this program if you did not get or only partially got a refund of your rental security deposit from a previous landlord and want to send a demand letter requesting that it be returned to you.
2022 Changes to Washington State’s laws affecting tenants
Two new laws affecting tenants in Washington State went into effect in June, 2022. Landlords cannot require tenants to pay electronically (they must accept checks and money orders for rent). Also, landlords may offer tenants the option to pay a monthly fee instead of a security deposit before moving in. #6317EN
Can my landlord raise my rent? By how much?
State law lets your landlord raise the rent if they give you enough notice about it. Get the details here. #6342EN
New Washington State Law: Landlords must give a "good" reason to end a tenancy or not renew a lease
Find out about a new law that requires landlords to evict or refuse to renew a rental agreement for specific reasons only. #6345EN and #6346EN.
Can I change the date my rent is due?
You can now ask your landlord to change the date your rent is due. Learn why you might want to do this, and how to do it. #6343EN
I need to respond to an eviction lawsuit as soon as possible
If you got legal papers from your landlord called a Summons and Complaint for Unlawful Detainer, read this and try to talk to a lawyer right away. #6309EN
Did my landlord illegally end my tenancy or evict me and what can I do about it?
New Washington state law expands on what a wrongful eviction is and makes clear that a court can hold a landlord liable to a tenant in such cases. #6906EN
I live in a manufactured/mobile home park. Can the park owner/landlord raise the rent, and by that much?
If you own your mobile home but rent the space it sits on, state law lets your landlord raise the rent if they give you enough notice about it. Get the details here. #6512EN
Missing payments of late fees cannot lead to eviction
Tenants may owe late fees and other kinds of charges but cannot be evicted for not paying them if they are not "rent" or certain recurring, regular charges. #6341EN
New Washington State law: Eviction Resolution Pilot Programs (ERPPs) and right to an attorney for tenants
Find out about a new law that establishes mediation for those behind on rent because of COVID-19 and find more information the right to a free lawyer for low-income tenants facing eviction. #6347EN
Tenant Talks: Know Your Rights for Renters
Learn more about new laws and current protections for renters.
New Washington State Law: Landlords must give a "good" reason to end a tenancy or not renew a lease
Find out about a new law that requires landlords to evict or refuse to renew a rental agreement for specific reasons only. #6345EN and #6346EN.
Did my landlord illegally end my tenancy or evict me and what can I do about it?
New Washington state law expands on what a wrongful eviction is and makes clear that a court can hold a landlord liable to a tenant in such cases. #6906EN
Missing payments of late fees cannot lead to eviction
Tenants may owe late fees and other kinds of charges but cannot be evicted for not paying them if they are not "rent" or certain recurring, regular charges. #6341EN
What are my rights in transitional housing?
Find out when you can be evicted from and other information about transitional housing programs. #6904EN
New Washington State law: Eviction Resolution Pilot Programs (ERPPs) and right to an attorney for tenants
Find out about a new law that establishes mediation for those behind on rent because of COVID-19 and find more information the right to a free lawyer for low-income tenants facing eviction. #6347EN
Tenant Screening: Your Rights
If you are looking for an apartment or house to rent, read this to learn about state law regarding tenant screening. #6302EN
My Landlord is Discriminating Against Me
Read this to learn what your options are. #6324EN
Tenants are Protected from Discrimination Based on Source of Income
Find out how makes it is illegal for landlords in Washington state to discriminate against tenants and would-be tenants based on their source of income, and what you can do if it happens to you. #6323EN
Public Housing Grievance Procedure
Public housing tenants: Learn more about your right to appeal many decisions or actions taken by the Housing Authority. #6105EN
Section 515 Rural Rental Housing Tenant Grievance and Appeals Procedure
As a tenant living in an apartment complex financed by the Rural Housing Service (formerly the Farmers Home Administration), you have the right to appeal many decisions you disagree with that are made by your landlord through the agency's tenant grievance and appeals procedure. #6119EN
Why your rental applications keep getting denied—and how to fix it
Find out how state law may allow you to get an order from the eviction court that stops tenant screening companies from using your eviction record when you apply for housing. #6303EN
Your rights as a tenant in Washington State
Explains residential tenants and landlords' rights and responsibilities in Washington. #6300EN
Can I change the date my rent is due?
You can now ask your landlord to change the date your rent is due. Learn why you might want to do this, and how to do it. #6343EN
2020 Changes to Washington’s Landlord/Tenant and Eviction Laws
Read about changes to Washington state's landlord tenant law that took effect June 11, 2020. #6351EN
Tenants can now pay most move-in costs in installments
State law now lets tenants pay certain move-in costs on a payment plan. #6344EN
2022 Changes to Washington State’s laws affecting tenants
Two new laws affecting tenants in Washington State went into effect in June, 2022. Landlords cannot require tenants to pay electronically (they must accept checks and money orders for rent). Also, landlords may offer tenants the option to pay a monthly fee instead of a security deposit before moving in. #6317EN
Landlord-Tenant Issues for Survivors of Domestic Violence
Learn about how the law can protect you if you are a tenant AND a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment or stalking. #6304EN
Video - Can I Break My Rental Agreement?
Learn about different types of rental agreements and the responsibilities of a tenant who wants to move.
Deposits
General information about the rental deposit process and links to applicable laws and related resources.
I’ve moved out. My former landlord says I owe damages.
It is important to dispute in writing damages you are not responsible for. Sample letters to the landlord included. #6372EN
Video - Help for Domestic Violence Victims Living in Federally Subsidized or Public Housing
Watch this video to learn your rights under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) if you live in federally subsidized housing or have a Section 8 voucher. This video covers federal laws, so the information is true no matter what state you live in.
Getting Your Security Deposit Back
Advice and instructions on how to get your security deposit back from your landlord. Learn the difference between damages the landlord can charge you for versus normal wear and tear. Includes forms you can use. #6370EN
Letter to Landlord for Return of a Security Deposit
Self-help forms and instructions on LawHelp Interactive. Use this program if you did not get or only partially got a refund of your rental security deposit from a previous landlord and want to send a demand letter requesting that it be returned to you.
Can My Landlord Do That?
General information about what a landlord legally can and cannot do to a tenant. #6306EN
Can my landlord raise my rent? By how much?
State law lets your landlord raise the rent if they give you enough notice about it. Get the details here. #6342EN
Tenant Screening: Your Rights
If you are looking for an apartment or house to rent, read this to learn about state law regarding tenant screening. #6302EN
Can I change the date my rent is due?
You can now ask your landlord to change the date your rent is due. Learn why you might want to do this, and how to do it. #6343EN
Landlord-Tenant Issues for Survivors of Domestic Violence
Learn about how the law can protect you if you are a tenant AND a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment or stalking. #6304EN
My landlord enters my rental unit without my permission
Find out what you can do if your landlord comes in and out of the rental unit, without written notice or asking permission. #6325EN
If you are a renter who has or might have Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out what rights you might have around being able to stay in your rental if you have or have been exposed to COVID-19. #6339EN
Tenants: If You Need Repairs
Learn about a landlord's responsibility to make repairs and what you can do to enforce your right to live in a safe home. #6330EN
My Landlord is Discriminating Against Me
Read this to learn what your options are. #6324EN
My landlord locked me out: What can I do?
Find what you can do if you got locked out even if you had no intention of moving. #6316EN
Tenants are Protected from Discrimination Based on Source of Income
Find out how makes it is illegal for landlords in Washington state to discriminate against tenants and would-be tenants based on their source of income, and what you can do if it happens to you. #6323EN
Tenant Services: Repairs
Learn about landlords' obligations under state law to keep your unit safe and livable.
My landlord shut off my utilities!
Find out what you can do if your landlord just shut off your utilities to try to force you to move. #6318EN
Tenants’ rights: The place I’m living in has been condemned
Find out your options if your landlord has been notified that your rental home will be condemned or will be unlawful to occupy. #6384EN
Video - Sexual Harassment in Housing is Illegal
Sexual harassment by landlords and property managers is illegal! Tenants in this US Dept. of Justice video bravely share their stories about being harassed in their home by landlords.
Did my landlord illegally end my tenancy or evict me and what can I do about it?
New Washington state law expands on what a wrongful eviction is and makes clear that a court can hold a landlord liable to a tenant in such cases. #6906EN
Getting Your Stuff Back
You should read this if someone else has property that is yours and you want to get it back. This may have happened because someone took something of yours without your permission or because you let someone borrow something, but they refused to return it. #6312EN
I live in a manufactured/mobile home park. Can the park owner/landlord raise the rent, and by that much?
If you own your mobile home but rent the space it sits on, state law lets your landlord raise the rent if they give you enough notice about it. Get the details here. #6512EN
Why your rental applications keep getting denied—and how to fix it
Find out how state law may allow you to get an order from the eviction court that stops tenant screening companies from using your eviction record when you apply for housing. #6303EN
Mold & Indoor Air Quality
Learn what a landlord's responsibilities are if you have mold problems.
Tenants: If You Need Repairs
Learn about a landlord's responsibility to make repairs and what you can do to enforce your right to live in a safe home. #6330EN
Tenant Services: Repairs
Learn about landlords' obligations under state law to keep your unit safe and livable.
Bed Bugs & Pest Infestations
Find out what to do if you have bed bugs or a pest infestation in your rental.
The Warranty of Habitability: When You Rent a Place that is not Safe to Live In
The warranty of habitability is a legal concept. It holds that in renting a place to you, the landlord makes an unspoken promise (warranty) that it is safe to live in. If it turns out not to be, the landlord has violated (broken) the warranty. #6340EN
City of Aberdeen Tenants: Information about the Rental Registration and Inspection Program (RRIP)
The RRIP requires all landlords to register their properties with the City and have them inspected at least once every 3 years. #6327EN
Tacoma tenants have additional protections under local laws
If you are a tenant (you rent the place where you live) in Tacoma, Washington, new Tacoma laws give you certain rights. This explains the laws. #6319EN
City of Burien: Protections and Rights for Tenants
If you live in Burien, read on to find about specific tenant protections available to Burien tenants. #6348EN
Eviction Assistance and Protections for Seattle Renters
Learn about Seattle's ongoing eviction protections and where Seattle renters can get free legal help and rent assistance.
New for Seattle tenants: Additional protection from evictions, rent assistance, right to renew leases
If you live in Seattle, read on to find about specific tenant protections available to Seattle tenants. #6350EN
Video - Help for Domestic Violence Victims Living in Federally Subsidized or Public Housing
Watch this video to learn your rights under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) if you live in federally subsidized housing or have a Section 8 voucher. This video covers federal laws, so the information is true no matter what state you live in.
Protecting Your Section 8 Voucher
A detailed explanation of your responsibilities under the Section 8 Voucher program, and what rights you have if the Housing Authority (HA) tries to cut off your voucher. #6113EN
A Guide for Immigrants, Limited English Persons and Their Advocates to Federally Subsidized Housing
A detailed guide for immigrants and non-English speakers to federally subsidized housing programs. #8151EN
Evictions from Public Housing (Housing Owned by a Housing Authority)
If you live in a Public Housing Project, the eviction process from Public Housing is a little different from the process for tenants with private landlords. #6102EN
How to fight a denial or termination of eligibility for the Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) referral program for medical reasons
Learn more about this program, which provides non-cash help for people who are unable to work. Publication #7813EN
What are my rights in transitional housing?
Find out when you can be evicted from and other information about transitional housing programs. #6904EN