Does Washington State have rent control?

No statewide rent control. Seattle has enacted various tenant protections, but not a blanket rent cap. A 2025 statewide rent cap bill has been discussed in the legislature but not passed as of 2025.

What is Washington's security deposit return deadline?

Washington landlords must return security deposits within 30 days of move-out along with an itemized statement of deductions. Failure to provide the statement within 30 days may forfeit the landlord's right to make deductions.

What notice is required for eviction in Washington?

For non-payment, Washington requires a 14-day pay or vacate notice. If unpaid, the landlord files an unlawful detainer action in Superior Court. Washington courts schedule hearings within 30 days of filing.

Washington • Updated 2025

Washington Lease Agreement Template

Free, state-specific lease agreement template fully compliant with Washington law. Download instantly in PDF or Word format — no email required.

Lease Agreements in Washington

Washington State landlord-tenant law is governed by RCW § 59.18 (Residential Landlord-Tenant Act). Washington has no cap on security deposits, which must be returned within 30 days of move-out. Washington does not have statewide rent control, though Seattle and other cities have enacted local tenant protections including just-cause eviction requirements. Evictions begin with a 14-day notice for non-payment.

Washington Lease Agreement Key Facts

Security Deposit Limit

No statutory cap

Deposit Return Deadline

30 days after move-out

Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month

20 days (tenant); just cause required for landlord after 20 days

Eviction Notice (Non-Payment)

14-Day Pay or Vacate Notice

Rent Control

No statewide; Seattle has local tenant protections

Governing Law

RCW § 59.18

Washington Legal Requirements

✓Security deposits must be returned within 30 days with itemized deductions.
✓Deposits must be held in a trust account.
✓Landlords must provide a written checklist of unit condition at move-in.
✓Lead paint disclosure required for pre-1978 properties.
✓24 hours' notice required before landlord entry (RCW § 59.18.150).
✓Seattle requires just cause for evictions and has additional tenant protections.

Washington Governing Laws

RCW § 59.18.280

Security Deposits

Requires deposits held in trust accounts and returned within 30 days of move-out with itemized deductions. Landlords must provide a move-in checklist.

RCW § 59.18.057

14-Day Pay or Vacate Notice

Requires 14-day notice to pay rent or vacate before eviction proceedings may begin for non-payment.

RCW § 59.18.650

Just Cause Eviction

Washington requires landlords to have just cause to evict after certain thresholds, including Seattle's local just-cause requirements.

Washington Lease Agreement — FAQ

Legal Disclaimer

This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws may have changed — consult a licensed Washington attorney for complex situations.