Landlord Tenant Overview

Numerous federal, state and local laws and ordinances protect housing rights. Washington’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act defines the minimum duties of landlords and tenants of residential dwellings. Housing codes and other local ordinances have also been enacted in many communities to set minimum standards for living conditions and to further regulate landlords' and tenants' rights and duties.

Landlord-tenant disputes are a common occurrence in the renting process, and many could be avoided if both parties were aware of their rights and responsibilities. Landlord-tenant legal actions must follow strict time frames and procedure guidelines.

Rights of All Tenants
All tenants have these basic rights under other state laws, regardless of whether they are covered by the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act:
• Right to a livable dwelling.
• Protection from unlawful discrimination.
• Right to hold the landlord liable for damage caused by the landlord’s negligence.
• Protection against lockouts and seizure of personal property by the landlord.

Rights of All Landlords

All landlords have these basic rights under other state laws:

• As a landlord, you should receive full payment of the rent on time, so long as rental property is in good condition.

• Tenants should request repairs in a timely manner and in writing. 

• Tenants must abide by all terms of the signed lease.

• Tenant's must provide proper notice before moving.
  

Landlord Tenant Attorneys

Please contact us if you are in need of or have questions regarding Landlord Tenant Law.