Notice requirements are strictly construed against the landlord. Even if you can prove the tenant actually received the
notice, failure to strictly adhere to the service methods will result in dismissal of the eviction action.
There are three acceptable means to serve an eviction notice on a tenant.
1. Delivering a copy personally to the tenant.
2. Substitute service on a some person of suitable age and discretion AND mailing a copy to the tenant.
3. If neither the tenant nor a person of suitable age and discretion is present then affixing a copy of the notice in
a conspicuous place on the premises AND mailing a copy.
RCW 59.12.040.
Mailing. Regular first class is fine. When mailing is required, one day is added by rule to the response from the tenant.
In effect, a three-day notice becomes a four-day notice and a ten-day notice an eleven-day notice.
More than one tenant.
If there is more than one person living in the property it is important to serve enough copies of the eviction notice
for each person. If someone answers the door, hand that person enough notices for everyone and mail copies separately to each
other tenant.
Likewise if posting a copy, mail one separately to each tenant.
Posting. Notices must be posted in a conspicuous manner. Anyone should be able to walk up
and read it. Therefore, do NOT fold it, leave it in an envelope, slide it under the door or through
the mail slot, etc.
