Landlord Accountability In Washington

Summary

In Washington, the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) outlines landlord responsibilities, including maintaining habitable conditions and addressing repairs. Tenants can cite RCW 59.18.060 for landlord compliance. For eviction notices, RCW 59.18.200 and RCW 59.18.070 detail tenant rights. Landlords must provide 48 hours notice for inspections (RCW 59.18.150). Move-in and move-out inspections are required (RCW 59.18.260, RCW 59.18.270). Tenants can document property conditions and seek legal advice if rights are violated. Consider consulting a landlord-tenant lawyer for personalized assistance.

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no it’s more like I have done work for the first last deposit and my landlord is saying that I haven’t, but I have the proof so I need to know how to communicate that she is lying and how to communicate the correct RCW protecting me

Got it. You can refer to RCW *.*.*, which outlines landlord responsibilities, including maintaining habitable conditions and making necessary repairs. Here's how you can communicate with your landlord:
- Present your proof (receipts, photos, etc.) clearly and concisely.
- Cite RCW *.*.* to support your claim.
- Politely but firmly state that you expect compliance based on the law.
Do you need guidance on drafting a formal letter to your landlord?

Yes please

Here's a sample letter to help you communicate your concerns to your landlord:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to formally address a concern regarding the work I have completed for my first, last, and deposit payments. As per our agreement, I have fulfilled my obligations and have attached proof (receipts, photos, etc.) to this letter.
Under RCW *.*.*, landlords are required to maintain the property in a habitable condition and address necessary repairs promptly. I have complied with our agreement and expect the same adherence to the law from your side.
I kindly request that you review the attached proof and acknowledge the work completed as agreed. Failure to comply may result in further legal actions to ensure my rights are protected.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like more information on next steps if the landlord does not respond favorably?

I have proof that she takes advantage of people in the exact same situation from previous tenants even though I have done the work she will come up with lies to say that I haven’t or will find the tiniest thing and say that it hasn’t been done, even though I have proof of her saying that I have done a great job prior just so that she feels like she has the right to kick me out after all of my hard work And continues to do this to every single tenant that she’s had in this place

It sounds like you have substantial evidence of your landlord's unfair practices. Here are your next steps:
- Document Everything: Keep all records, communications, and proof of your work.
- Send the Formal Letter: Use the sample letter provided.
- File a Complaint: Consider filing a complaint with the Washington State Attorney General’s Office or a local tenants' union.
- Seek Legal Advice: Given the repetitive nature of the issue, you may want to consult a lawyer specializing in landlord-tenant law.
Would you like guidance on how to file a complaint or locate a tenants' union?

no I just want further suggested letters on how to communicate these so that she is fully aware that I know my rights in Washington and she can feel the pressure of not being able to bully me anymore

Given your situation, here’s a follow-up letter to emphasize your position and rights under Washington state law:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to reiterate and further emphasize my position regarding the work completed for my first, last, and deposit payments. As previously communicated, I have fulfilled my obligations, with proof provided.
Per RCW *.*.*, landlords are required to maintain the property in a habitable condition and address necessary repairs promptly. It is my right as a tenant to expect adherence to this law. I have attached additional proof and records to this letter to reinforce my compliance with our agreement.
I am fully aware of my rights under Washington state law and expect you to honor our agreement without resorting to any unfounded claims or misrepresentations. Any attempt to undermine my rights or evict me unjustly will be met with legal action.
I urge you to carefully review the attached documents and formally acknowledge the completion of the agreed-uwork. Failure to comply will compel me to pursue all legal avenues available to protect my rights.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your immediate and favorable response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like assistance with any additional aspects, such as escalating the issue or preparing for potential legal proceedings?

Yes please and then also could you help me write out a letter stating the fact that she refused to do a walk-through of the house before we did all of the work and after but I do have pictures with dates and time stamps of before, and after because I already had a feeling that she was trying to take advantage of me

Sure, here’s a letter addressing the refusal to do a walk-through and your documented evidence:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to address an additional concern regarding our agreement for the first, last, and deposit payments. Despite my requests, you refused to conduct a walk-through of the property both before and after the work completion.
I have attached dated and time-stamped photos as proof of the work done. This documentation clearly shows the state of the property before and after the work, substantiating my compliance with our agreement.
Under RCW *.*.*, landlords must maintain the property in a habitable condition and address necessary repairs promptly. I expect you to honor our agreement and acknowledge the completion of the work without resorting to unfounded claims.
Failure to comply will compel me to pursue all legal avenues available to protect my rights as a tenant.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your immediate and favorableresponse.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like guidance on preparing for potential legal proceedings if the landlord continues to be non-compliant?

Also what RCW’s should I cite telling her that she has unlawfully giving me a 20 day vacate notice without any information on days to pay her the rest of the rent that is due I gave her half of the rent and I’ve am currently up-to-date on my rent if I’ve ever been late before I’ve paid my late fee I was going to pay her the late fee and the rest of the rent this month but she provided me with the false documentation so therefore it should have taken care of the last months rent that I worked for so technically she owes me money.

You can refer to the following RCWs for your situation:
- RCW *.*.*: This outlines the conditions under which a landlord can issue a notice to vacate.
- RCW *.*.*: This section explains the tenant's right to receive notice and the opportunity to pay overdue rent before eviction.
Would you like a draft letter to address the *-day vacate notice and your payment situation?

Yes please

Here's a draft letter addressing the *-day vacate notice and your payment situation:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to address the *-day vacate notice you recently issued. I believe this notice is unlawful based on the following points:
*. RCW *.*.*: This outlines the conditions under which a landlord can issue a notice to vacate. Your notice does not comply with these conditions.
*. RCW *.*.*: This section explains the tenant's right to receive notice and an opportunity to pay overdue rent before eviction. I have not been given such an opportunity.
I have been current with my rent payments, including late fees when applicable. Additionally, the work I completed for the first, last, and deposit payments should offset any outstanding balance, and therefore, you owe me money.
I have attached proof of my payments and the work done, including dated and time-stamped photos as evidence. I expect you to acknowledge the completion of the work and adjust the rent accordingly.
Issuing a *-day vacate notice under these circumstances is not only unfair but also contrary to Washington state law. I urge you to review the attached documentation and retract the vacate notice immediately.
Failure to comply will compel me to pursue all legal avenues available to protect my rights as a tenant.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your immediate and favorable response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like more information on how to escalate this issue if the landlord still does not comply?

in the meantime, is there a shorter version of that that I can send her letting her know that I am preparing such documents and responses and that she will be getting these responses in full and as soon as possible

Here's a shorter version you can send:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am preparing detailed documents and responses regarding our ongoing issues, which you will receive soon. These documents will outline my compliance with our agreement and my rights under RCW *.*. I expect a fair resolution once you review them.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like to know more about how to escalate the issue if needed?

I also need to state that she is not allowed on the property due to her continuous harassment, discrimination, and the fact that I feel unsafe. She also is trying to tell me that she’s going to be having random strangers come into my house so that she can rent out the house as soon as I’m out and I am absolutely not OK with that.

Here's a short version of the letter to address her harassment and your concerns about strangers entering the property:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am preparing detailed documents regarding our ongoing issues. Additionally, due to continuous harassment and discrimination, I am not comfortable with you entering the property or having strangers come in. This creates an unsafe environment for me.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like guidance on escalating this matter if the landlord continues to harass you?

no I need more information on what to tell her further on not allowing anybody in my house or her on the property even if she wants to do maintenance that has been needed to be done for years and is not an emergency. She’s just doing it to harass me further in to bully and to use it as a scare tactic.

You can refer to RCW *.*.*, which outlines tenant privacy rights and conditions under which a landlord can enter the property. Here's a concise letter for your situation:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to assert my rights under RCW *.*.* regarding tenant privacy. Due to continuous harassment and bullying, I am not comfortable with you or any strangers entering my property. Non-emergency maintenance does not justify entry without my consent.
Thank you for respecting my privacy.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like more information on how to handle any potential violations of your privacy rights?

She has told me that she has some of her property in a locked shed that only I am my fiancé have the keys to. I also do not feel comfortable with her coming onto the property to access those. We have no plans on taking anything of hers with us And do not want to allow her anywhere near our personal area or personal being.

You can address this issue by asserting your rights and setting clear boundaries:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that due to ongoing harassment and the need to protect our privacy, you are not allowed on the property without prior consent. This includes accessing any sheds or areas where your belongings may be stored.
Please arrange an alternative method to retrieve your property that does not involve entering the premises.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like more information on how to enforce this boundary legally or handle any potential disputes?

And yes, I would love more information about violations on my personal privacy

In Washington state, tenant privacy is protected under RCW *.*.*. Here are some key points regarding personal privacy violations:
- Right to Privacy: Tenants have the right to privacy in their rented premises.
- Landlord Entry: Landlords must provide at least * hours' notice before entering, except in emergencies.
- Reasonable Access: Entry should be at reasonable times and for valid reasons (e.g., repairs, inspections).
Would you like guidance on filing a formal complaint if your landlord violates these privacy rights?

Yes please

You can file a formal complaint if your landlord violates your privacy rights. Here are the steps:
*. Document Violations: Record all instances of unauthorized entry or harassment.
*. Contact Local Authorities: Reach out to local tenant rights organizations or the Washington State Attorney General’s Office.
*. File a Complaint: Submit a formal complaint outlining the violations and your documented evidence.
Would you like assistance with drafting the formal complaint?

I would like more information on how to enforce that boundary

To enforce the boundary and protect your privacy, here are the steps you can take:
*. Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all interactions and instances of harassment.
*. Send a Formal Letter: Clearly state your boundaries and cite RCW *.*.* regarding tenant privacy.
*. File a Complaint: If boundaries are violated, file a complaint with the Washington State Attorney General’s Office or local tenant rights organizations.
*. Seek Legal Advice: Consider consulting a lawyer to explore further legal actions.
Would you like assistance with any of these steps?

She has already done an inspection and chose to use that day to give us the 20 day vacate after the inspection was that legal? And I had also had COVID-* had a fever of * that day and I made her aware of it, and she still told us she did not care came into our house couldn’t find anything in the inspection, except for dust in the vents after we had already lived here for five months and I had cleaned * */2 months ago, and I always cleaned them. She was lying. And a closet that hasn’t been fully painted due to her, not providing the rest of the materials needed and I was very sick and she still violated that is that something I can also raise of awareness and is there any log protecting me on those issues?

It sounds like you have multiple issues with your landlord. Here are some key points and steps you can take:

Key Points:
- RCW *.*.*: Landlords must provide at least * hours' notice before entering, except in emergencies.
- RCW *.*.*: Conditions for issuing a notice to vacate.
- Health Concerns: Entering your property while you were ill could be considered harassment and a violation of your rights.

Steps You Can Take:
*. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all interactions, inspections, and notices.
*. Send a Formal Letter: Clearly state your rights and the laws that protect you.
*. File a Complaint: With the Washington State Attorney General’s Office or local tenant rights organizations.
*. Seek Legal Advice: Given the severity of the situation, consulting a lawyer is advisable.
Would you like assistance with drafting a formal complaint or any other specific step?

Could you please help me write out the formal letter that I would need to write about the intrusion when she did the inspection while I was sick and how she confronted me in my bedroom while I was in bed screaming at me and my fiancé and would not leave our house for an hour and a half afterwards And I also have it all on home security

Certainly! Here's a formal letter addressing the intrusion and harassment during the inspection:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to formally address an incident that occurred during the recent inspection of my residence on [Date]. Despite informing you that I was ill with COVID-* and had a fever of *°F, you insisted on conducting the inspection and subsequently confronted me and my fiancé in our bedroom, screaming at us and refusing to leave for an hour and a half.
This situation has caused significant distress and is a clear violation of my rights under RCW *.*.*, which mandates landlords to provide at least * hours' notice before entering, except in emergencies. Your actions constitute harassment and a disregard for my health and safety.
I have documented this incident with home security footage, which I am prepared to present as evidence if necessary. I request that you cease any further unwarranted entries and harassment immediately. Failure to comply will compel me to pursue alllegal avenues available to protect my rights.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your immediate and favorable response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like assistance with any other steps, such as filing a formal complaint or seeking legal advice?

Yes what type of lawyers should I contact for all of these issues? I definitely plan on holding her accountable and suing her, especially because I am the several person in line that she has done this to and taking advantage of.

For your situation, you should look for a lawyer specializing in landlord-tenant law. They can help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure your rights are protected.
Would you like guidance on how to find a reputable landlord-tenant lawyer?

Yes please

To find a reputable landlord-tenant lawyer:
*. Local Bar Association: Contact your local bar association for referrals.
*. Online Legal Directories: Use websites like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to read reviews and find specialized lawyers.
*. Tenant Rights Organizations: Reach out to local tenant rights groups for recommendations.
Would you like help drafting an initial inquiry to a potential lawyer?

is there anything that protects me for her not doing a walk-through for the specific reason of trying to be able to say that there are way more damages than they’re actually are or that we haven’t done work even though we did and this is not her first time doing it

In Washington state, landlords are required to conduct move-in and move-out inspections to avoid disputes over damages (RCW *.*.* and RCW *.*.*). Here are some key points:
- Move-In Inspection: The landlord must provide a written checklist upon move-in.
- Move-Out Inspection: The landlord must conduct a move-out inspection to compare with the initial checklist.
- Tenant's Rights: Tenants have the right to be present during these inspections.
Would you like help drafting a letter to your landlord regarding these inspections?

Would you also help me write out a statement for this as well?

Certainly! Here's a concise statement addressing your landlord's failure to conduct proper inspections:
---

Statement
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to address your failure to conduct both move-in and move-out inspections, as required under RCW *.*.* and RCW *.*.*. The lack of these inspections has led to disputes over the condition of the property and the work completed.
Upon move-in, you were required to provide a written checklist outlining the property's condition, which you failed to do. Similarly, a move-out inspection should be conducted to compare with the initial checklist. I have documented evidence, including dated photos and receipts, demonstrating the work completed and the property's condition.
Your refusal to conduct these inspections appears to be a deliberate attempt to claim unfounded damages. This is not only unfair but also contrary to Washington state law.
I request that you acknowledge the work completed and cease making unfounded claims. Failure to comply will compel me to pursue all legal avenues available to protect my rights.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your immediate and favorable response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like more information on any other aspect related to your situation?Certainly! Here's a concise statement addressing your landlord's failure to conduct proper inspections:
---

And since she hasn’t done the move-in inspection, what if she requires a move out inspection

If your landlord didn't conduct a move-in inspection, it complicates claims of damages during the move-out inspection. Here's how to address it:
- Document the current condition with photos and videos.
- Present your evidence if she claims damages.
- Cite RCW *.*.* and RCW *.*.* for inspection requirements.
Would you like assistance drafting a letter to your landlord regarding this?

Yes please and how many times can she do an inspection and what all is she even allowed to do during the inspection? What isn’t she allowed to do? How long can she be in the house? Is she allowed to do it all by herself, how do I protect myself during these inspections

Here's the letter addressing the move-out inspection and your rights:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to address the upcoming move-out inspection. As you did not conduct a move-in inspection as required under RCW *.*.*, it complicates claims regarding property conditions.
To clarify, here are your obligations and my rights under Washington State law:
- RCW *.*.*: A written checklist detailing the property’s condition must be provided upon move-in.
- RCW *.*.*: A move-out inspection should compare with the initial checklist, which was not conducted.
Given the absence of a move-in inspection, I request that the move-out inspection be fair and based on documented evidence. I have photos and receipts demonstrating the property's condition and work completed.
Inspection Rights and Rules:
- Frequency and Notice: Inspections must be reasonable and with at least * hours' notice unlessit's an emergency.
- Duration and Conduct: Inspections should be at reasonable times and not longer than necessary to assess the condition.
- Presence and Assistance: You can bring someone to the inspection for support. The landlord should not conduct the inspection alone without prior notice.
- Actions Allowed: Only inspection-related activities are allowed. Harassment or unreasonable demands are not permissible.
I request that any future inspections comply strictly with these guidelines to ensure fairness and respect for my rights.
Failure to adhere to these standards will compel me to seek legal remedies to protect my rights.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your immediate and favorable response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like more information on enforcing these boundaries or handling potential disputes during the inspection?

Yes please . And further information on all what can be done during the inspection in the house and what cannot be done.

During an inspection, the following guidelines apply in Washington state:

Landlord's Actions Allowed:
- Inspect Property Condition: Check for damage, maintenance needs.
- Reasonable Timing: Inspections should occur at reasonable times and be as brief as necessary.
- Proper Notice: At least * hours' notice before the inspection (RCW *.*.*).

Tenant's Rights:
- Presence: You have the right to be present during the inspection.
- Documentation: Record the inspection with photos or videos for your records.
- Non-Harassment: The landlord cannot harass or intimidate you during the inspection.

Prohibited Actions:
- Unreasonable Intrusion: The landlord cannot overstay or inspect without notice.
- Harassment: Any form of intimidation or harassment is strictly prohibited.
- Unauthorized Persons: Bringing strangers without your consent.
Would you like assistance with any specific aspect or further clarification on any of these points?

Can you help me write a statement saying that she only did the inspection to use it as a tactic to scare me out of the property and the points that she did make during the inspection. We’re a little to no concern and the entire situation was very traumatizing.

Certainly! Here’s a concise statement addressing the inspection and your concerns:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent inspection conducted on [Date]. Despite informing you of my severe illness, you proceeded with the inspection, which I believe was used as a tactic to scare me out of the property.
The points you raised during the inspection, such as dust in the vents and an unfinished closet due to lack of provided materials, were of little to no concern. Your actions were not only unnecessary but also deeply traumatizing.
I request that you cease using such tactics and respect my rights as a tenant. Failure to do so will compel me to pursue all legal avenues available to protect my rights.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your immediate and favorable response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like further assistance with any additional steps or details?

Yes please I would also need the rent issue within that letter and then I also have a question on. Is there a law that says how many times you’re not allowed to be late for rent? I’ve never had this issue before I’ve lived in several different places and I’ve been late several times due to me having different pay periods or illnesses or family emergencies and I’ve always been given to * payer vacate and I’ve always paid during that time. She is trying to tell me since I’ve been late three out of five payments that that is a good enough reason to give me the 20 day vacate, even though I am not behind on past due rent, and I always paid her within less than Six days of the first payment and I always paid her the late fee

Here’s an updated letter incorporating your rent issue and addressing the inspection:
---
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent inspection conducted on [Date]. Despite informing you of my severe illness, you proceeded with the inspection, which I believe was used as a tactic to scare me out of the property. The points you raised, such as dust in the vents and an unfinished closet due to lack of provided materials, were of little to no concern. Your actions were not only unnecessary but also deeply traumatizing.
Additionally, I want to address the issue of the *-day vacate notice you issued. According to RCW *.*.*, a landlord may issue a notice to vacate under specific conditions. However, I have always paid my rent within a few days of the due date and have included the late fee as required. The reason you provided—being late three out of five payments—is not sufficient grounds for such anotice, especially since I am not behind on any past due rent.
Here are some key points to consider:
- RCW *.*.*: Outlines the conditions under which a landlord can issue a notice to vacate.
- RCW *.*.*: Explains the tenant's right to receive notice and the opportunity to pay overdue rent before eviction.
Given that I have consistently paid my rent, including late fees, issuing a *-day vacate notice is both unfair and contrary to Washington state law. Your actions appear to be part of a pattern of harassment and an attempt to undermine my rights as a tenant.
I request that you retract the vacate notice immediately and cease using such tactics. Failure to comply will compel me to pursue all legal avenues available to protect my rights.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your immediate and favorable response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Would you like help with any additional details or further steps?

Thank you so much. If I have any further questions, I will definitely ask your service has not only been life-saving but very comforting and a very stressful situation.

You're welcome! I'm glad I could assist you. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Best of luck in resolving your situation!

One more question how long will all of my saved chats be on this website and is there any way to download our entire chat to my phone and send them to my email?

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Landlord Accountability In Washington

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