Things to Know About Renting in Washington:

· RESEARCH your landlord, and READ every line of your lease.

· Do a thorough inspection when you move in, take photos, and document everything in WRITING.

· If something breaks and it is not your fault, notify your landlord in WRITING.

· If you are under the term of a lease, your landlord may not make any changes to the terms of the lease unless you agree in writing. For a month-to-month tenancy, a landlord can make changes with 30 days notice.

· Your landlord cannot enter your property without 48 hours notice (24 hours notice if showing it to new tenants) except in very limited situations.

· Terminate your lease in WRITING delivered by certified mail, returned receipt requested, or hand delivery. If terminating under the SCRA, include a copy of your orders or a memorandum from your commanding officer verifying your current or future military status.

· When it is time to move out, do a walk-thru, take photos, and document everything in WRITING.

· Your landlord has 14 days after your lease ends to refund your security deposit and/or send a written explanation as to why the landlord is keeping any of it.

· You will be responsible for any damage you cause - even if it exceeds the security deposit.

· If you have a dispute with your landlord about damages and the security deposit, you may be able to file an action in small claims court.

· Be sure that your lease has the following Military Clause – or something equivalent:

· In the event the Tenant is or hereafter becomes, a member of the United States Armed Forces on extended active duty and hereafter the Tenant receives permanent change of station orders to depart from the area where the Premises are located, or is relieved from active duty, retires or separates from the military, or is ordered into military housing, or is deployed for more than 90 days, then in any of these events, the tenant may terminate this lease upon giving thirty (30) days written notice to the Landlord.  The Tenant shall also provide to the Landlord a copy of the official orders or a letter signed by the Tenant’s commanding officer, reflecting the change which warrants termination under this clause.  The Tenant will pay prorated rent for any days he (they) occupies the dwelling past the first day of the month.”