NOTICE TIME-FRAMES CHANGED – Washington State

Changes were made to the Residential Landlord Tenant Act effective today, 7/29/19. These apply state-wide, for all residential properties – whether the landlord owns one or a thousand, whether single-family, ADU or multifamily, whether professionally managed or owner managed.

A 60-day notice to increase rent will be required unless the rent amount is based on income.  Previously a 30-day notice has been required by state law.

A 14-day notice will be required to evict a tenant for non-payment of rent.  Previously, a landlord could issue a 3-day notice to vacate for non-payment of rent. Judges will be able to consider “equitable factors” such as hardship or illness, when asked to grant an eviction order.

Additional notice time will be required if a landlord gives a notice to vacate due to demolition or other change in use of the rental property.  Landlords are also required to apply payments towards rent first and other charges, such as late fees, legal fees, or utility payments after rent is paid.

We are here to help you and your clients with all aspects of the rental market. Please contact us for further assistance!

Nothing found herein should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a legal opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of law. You should not rely solely on this information. We encourage our clients to work with a lawyer experienced in commercial and/or residential real estate matters as they can be complicated and confusing.