What can a landlord do if a tenant is late on rent payments?

In Washington State, if a tenant is late on rent payments, the landlord typically can provide a five day “pay or vacate” notice to the tenant. This notice must specify how much the tenant owes and the date by which the tenant must either pay the amount due or vacate the premises. If the tenant does not pay the amount due or vacate the premises by the date specified in the notice, then the landlord may file an eviction lawsuit against the tenant. When filing the eviction lawsuit, the landlord could ask for possession of the rental property as well as money damages for back rent, court costs, and late fees. The court also might award the landlord additional costs and attorney’s fees if the tenant does not appear in court. If the tenant is unable to pay the amount due, the court may also allow the tenant to pay the past due amount in installments. The tenant must pay subsequent rent on time and in full in addition to the installments in order to remain in the home. If the court rules in favor of the landlord, the tenant must leave the rental property by the date specified in the court order, or the sheriff’s department may be asked to forcibly remove the tenant. It is important for landlords and tenants to understand their rights and obligations under Washington’s landlord and tenant law to avoid potential legal issues.

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What can a landlord do if a tenant is late on rent payments?

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