Can a landlord prohibit a tenant from having pets?

Yes, a landlord can prohibit a tenant from having pets in Washington. This is governed by the landlord-tenant laws found in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW 59.18). According to the RCW, landlords can either include a pet policy in the rental agreement or issue a separate set of pet rules. If the rules are included in the rental agreement, it is a binding contract between the landlord and tenant and any breach of the pet policy can result in the tenant being evicted. If the landlord issues a separate set of pet rules, they can only be enforced if they are reasonable, specific, and enforced consistently. It is important for tenants to be aware of the pet policy when entering into a lease agreement. Landlords may also have restrictions on the number, type, and size of animals that may be kept in the rental unit. They may also require additional deposits for pets and may reserve the right to inspect the property to ensure the pet is being taken care of and is not causing damage. Lease agreements with pet policies can become complicated, so tenants should ensure they understand and follow the requirements in the agreement. If there is not a pet policy or the landlord is unreasonable, tenants may be able to challenge any attempts to prohibit pet ownership. It is important for tenants to research their rights and consult with a lawyer if they have any questions or disputes about the pet policy.

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Can a landlord prohibit a tenant from having pets?

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