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Fire is no fun!
Did you know... •
January 27, 2014
If a tenant files for bankruptcy…
If a tenant files bankruptcy and includes rent in the bankruptcy action, an “automatic stay” goes into effect. This means that no legal action can be taken against the tenant without the permission of the bankruptcy court. Even if an eviction action has already been started, the property cannot be recovered without the approval of the bankruptcy court and this can be an extended process.
Did you know... •
January 8, 2014
Fair Credit Reporting Act
Per the Fair Credit Reporting Act, landlords must send written notice to a rental applicant not only if s/he is denied tenancy, but also when the tenant is approved if that approval is conditioned on an increase in the tenant’s obligations. An “adverse action notice” must be sent if any of the following occurs:
An application is rejected
An increased deposit is required
Last month’s rent is required when normally not required
A co-signer is required
The notice must include specific information regarding the applicant’s rights, which credit bureau was used and how the applicant can dispute the results.
Did you know... •
December 16, 2013
TENANT ABANDONMENT
If a tenant abandons the rental property a landlord in Washington State landlord can take possession. The tenant must have indicated by word or deeds AND have unpaid rent before the landlord can declare the property abandoned. If the tenant abandons any personal property that has either emotional or financial value it must be stored for 45 days and there is a process for notifying the tenant.
A judge can award a tenant up to $500 per day for every day a tenant is without his/her personal property if a landlord illegally removes a tenant’s property. If a landlord disposes of the tenant’s property without due process, the landlord could also owe the tenant the stated value of the belongings.
Did you know... •
December 9, 2013
Frozen pipes can occur even in occupied properties!
Here are some tips for prevention:
- Locate the main water shut off before a broken pipe occurs.
- Disconnect all hoses; if the water freezes in the hose, it can break the spigot.
- Most new spigots have a shut off valve inside the house or garage; shut off any spigots with this feature.
- Put spigot covers on all outside faucets.
- Make sure that there is some heat on in the house at all times.
- Keep the garage door closed so any heat will be kept inside.
- If the temperature drops below 20° during the day, let water trickle in all the faucets.
- In periods of extreme cold, leave cupboard doors open under sinks on exterior walls so the heat will get to the pipes.
Did you know... •
December 2, 2013
INSPECTIONS FOR SEATTLE RENTALS
In 2014- 2016, Inspections will be required for all Seattle rentals. These inspections apply to all registered rental housing units, except those receiving public subsidies that are already subject to regular inspections, those getting regular inspections from their lending institution, and accessory dwelling units if occupied by an immediate family member of the resident home owner.
The following schedule applies for the registration requirement:
· By July 1, 2014, all properties with 10 or more rental housing units
· By December 31, 2014, all properties with 5 to 9 rental housing units
· By December 31, 2016, all properties with 1 to 4 rental housing units
Each registration must include a sworn statement that the rental housing units meet specified subset of the health and safety standards called for in Seattle’s housing code. Registrations must be renewed every five years.
