Defend Your Rights as
a Washington Tenant
Washington Law Protects You – Know Your Rights Under RCW 59.18 and Fight Back Against Landlord Abuse
10 Washington Tenant Rights Landlords Hope You Never Discover
1. Your Security Deposit Must Be Returned in 21 Days – No Exceptions
Under RCW 59.18.280, landlords must return your deposit or provide an itemized deduction list within 21 days of moving out. Unjust charges like “normal wear and tear” are illegal. We’ll sue to recover your money.
2. Illegal Evictions Can Be Stopped – Even if You’re Behind on Rent
Washington bans “self-help” evictions (RCW 59.18.290). Landlords can’t shut off utilities, change locks, or intimidate you. Only a court-ordered eviction is valid. We’ll challenge improper notices like 3-day “Pay or Vacate” demands.
3. Rent Increases Require 60 Days’ Notice – Fight Unfair Hikes
RCW 59.18.140 mandates 60 days’ written notice for rent increases over 10%. If your landlord gave less notice, the increase is void. We’ll help you dispute it.
4. Demand Repairs for Mold, Pests, or Broken Heat
Washington’s Implied Warranty of Habitability (RCW 59.18.060) requires landlords to fix hazards. If they ignore written requests, you can withhold rent or deduct repair costs after 10 days.
5. Landlords Can’t Enter Without 48-Hour Notice
RCW 59.18.150 protects your privacy. Landlords must provide 48 hours’ written notice for non-emergency entry (e.g., inspections). Unannounced visits? We’ll send a cease-and-desist letter.
6. Retaliation is Illegal – Report Rent Hikes After Repair Requests
Landlords can’t punish you for asserting rights. If they raise rent or threaten eviction within 90 days of a repair request, we’ll prove retaliation under RCW 59.18.240.
7. "No Cause" Evictions Are Banned in Seattle & Tacoma
Cities like Seattle (SMC 22.206.160) require “just cause” for evictions (e.g., nonpayment, property damage). If your landlord cites vague reasons like “owner move-in,” we’ll demand proof.
8. Challenge Discriminatory Denials or Harassment
Washington’s Fair Housing Act (RCW 49.60) bans bias based on race, gender identity, or military status. We’ll hold landlords accountable for discriminatory lease terms or treatment.
9. Fight "Junk Fees" Not in Your Lease
Non-refundable fees (e.g., “admin charges”) are illegal unless explicitly stated in your lease (RCW 59.18.285). We’ll dispute wrongful deductions.
10. Break Your Lease for Domestic Violence or Military Duty
Washington allows early lease termination for victims of domestic violence (RCW 59.18.575) or active military transfers (RCW 59.18.200). We’ll help you exit safely.
How Cascade Counsel Enforces Your Washington Tenant Rights
Eviction Defense
Block illegal lockouts or defective notices in Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma courts.
Deposit Recovery
Sue landlords who violate the 21-day rule – we’ve reclaimed over $250k for tenants.
Lease Reviews
Spot unenforceable clauses (e.g., "no pets" in violation of ESA laws).
Repair Negotiations
Draft legally sound repair requests and negotiate rent reductions for uninhabitable units.
Washington-Specific Protections We Leverage
RCW 59.18.100:
“Repair and Deduct” for urgent fixes (e.g., broken plumbing).
RCW 59.18.410:
Tenants can recover double damages for wrongful deposit withholding.
Seattle’s Fair Chance Housing Ordinance:
Landlords can’t reject applicants for criminal history.
Why Washington Tenants Trust Us
Local Expertise:
We know Seattle’s Renters’ Rights Commission, Tacoma’s housing codes, and Spokane courts.
No Fees Unless We Win:
Most cases are contingency-based – you pay nothing upfront.
Fast Action:
We respond within 24 hours to stop illegal evictions or deposit theft.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational, educational, and marketing purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The content is current as of its publication or last review and may not reflect the latest legal developments. Do not rely solely on this information—consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.
