What consumer protections are available for rental housing?

In Washington, renters have several consumer protections available to them. The Landlord-Tenant Act of Washington addresses several issues that arise in rental housing, such as security deposits and leases. The law requires a lease to be in writing and that rental agreements should include the names of the landlord and tenant, the amount of rent and security deposit, when rent is due, a description of the rental unit, and any other special terms. The Landlord-Tenant Act also limits the amount of security deposit a landlord can require (generally one month’s rent) and it requires that any security deposit be placed in a separate account and refunded within 21 days after the tenant moves out. In addition, the law requires landlords to maintain their rental units in a fit and habitable condition; to provide essential services such as heat, water, and electricity; and to keep common areas such as hallways clean and safe. Washington’s consumer protection laws also require landlords to inform tenants in writing before they enter a rental unit and to provide notice at least 20 days before a rent increase. Lastly, if a tenant pays rent on time and abides by the terms of the rental agreement, a landlord cannot evict them without a court order. Overall, the Landlord-Tenant Act of Washington provides important consumer protections for renters and helps ensure that landlords uphold their obligations to provide safe, clean, and habitable rental units.

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What consumer protections are available for rental housing?

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