Landlord-tenant and eviction law has been completely overhauled. New laws at every level impact the rights of landlords and tenants and the eviction process. Most of the changes are permanent.
Washington state law guarantees tenants the right to free legal counsel and requires just cause to terminate any residential tenancy.
Residential landlords may no longer evict based on a "20-day" notice. To end the tenancy because the lease expired requires a notice served at least 60 days prior to the end of the lease term, and is not always an option. If all authorized tenants vacate, residential landlords must offer other occupants (even if unauthorized) who have been living in the property for at least six months a chance to apply to join the rental agreement.
There is a litany of new local landlord-tenant and eviction laws throughout Washington. In both Tacoma and Seattle, residential landlords have to contend with a winter eviction ban and a school-year eviction ban. Laws in many localities require additional language on notices and/or additional documents to be served with notices. A landlord must comply with local laws at the city and county levels and with court rules in each county. Interpretation of state and federal laws varies in fundamental ways from county to county.
Local know-how is more important than ever when considering a landlord-tenant attorney.
This website is published by an eviction lawyer who practices in various Washington counties. There is also a lawyer directory where you may find an attorney near you in counties we do not cover. We are not affiliated with any of the attorneys in the directory nor do we accept anything of value for listings in the directory.
Any information on this website, including but not limited to any forms posted, is not a substitute for legal advice. It is always best to consult with a lawyer before taking any action.
425-641-8010
Is it legal for a landlord to average the cost of utilities?
I just moved into my own condo, and I’ve been comparing my costs for utilities (gas & water) to what I was paying at my apartment. They were charging me DOUBLE what I’m paying here, plus a $5.00 service fee for the privilege. My usage hasn’t changed. The complex was fairly large, one of many […]
Continue readingHow would Democrats and Republicans in Washington react to these transitional demands?
the Socialist Equality Party propose as a bridge to socialism? Universal employment, unrestricted access to quality medical care and education, decent housing, the cancellation of foreclosures and evictions, automatic adjustment of wages in line with inflation, the democratization of the workplace, unrestricted inspection by the public of the financial records of corporations and financial institutions, […]
Continue readingwhy do I have to use a rental agreement prepared by a qualified attorney/Legal Forms?
or can I just make my own? what’s the difference if I am the landlord and make up my own agreement or use a legal one? some that I find here online are state specific . what happens if I just change some things to a legal one I have already bought?
Continue readingWhat is the latest form for “Notice to Leave Premises?”?
the “Notice To Leave Premises” form is when you want to give a three (3) day eviction notice.
Continue readingHow can I evict ex boyfriend?
I’m located in Sarasota, Florida. I’ve been trying to get my ex to move out for months now and have been given the run around! I’ve reached my breaking point and am ready to go threw the eviction process ( whatever it takes to get him out) The only problem is I cannot find any […]
Continue readingHow do I put my rent into escrow and do I need an attorney?
I live in Maryland. the apartment complex I live in is like a slum landlord. We have had a mice infestation for over 2 years and they just bought and exterminator out to do something about it 2 weeks ago. We also have an infestation of ants and now we believe that we have also […]
Continue readingHow can a mother of a deceased unmarried daughter get a power of attorney for the daughter’s personals and fin
Daughter suddenly died at 24. Never thought she would need P O A since we should have left this world first. Not getting good responses from bank, landlord, etc! We don’t know what to do!!
Continue readingMy step-mom assaulted me on Christmas and admitted to it and went to jail, given 3 day eviction notice?
I have lived here for 2 years and three months and was planning to move out next month when I get my student loan money and then she attacked me. She was arrested and spent two days in jail and cannot come back to the house while I am here. Today I woke up to […]
Continue reading