Can Landlords Charge for Trash and Recycling in Washington?

Many tenants in Washington want to know if their landlord can charge separately for trash and recycling services. Understanding your obligations and rights can prevent confusion and help you avoid unexpected costs.

What the Law Says About Utilities and Trash in Washington

Under Washington law, landlords and tenants can agree in the rental agreement on who pays for utilities—including trash and recycling services. If your lease states you must pay, landlords are allowed to charge for these services. If your rental agreement does not mention trash or recycling, the landlord is typically responsible for the cost.^[1]

Key Points About Utility Charges

• Rental Agreement Rules: The payment responsibility for trash and recycling must be clearly stated in the lease.
• Disclosure: Landlords must specify all utilities and charges in writing before you sign the lease.
• Shared Utilities: For multi-unit properties, landlords can allocate utility costs among tenants as long as the method is disclosed and fair.

For full details, refer to the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.

Are Additional Fees for Trash and Recycling Legal?

Landlords may pass along municipal or utility company charges for trash and recycling, but only if this is stated in the rental agreement. Washington law requires that all potential fees and cost-sharing methods be clearly outlined. Surprise fees that weren't agreed upon are not permitted.

• Monthly Service Fees: If you pay directly, you’ll usually receive information about the account or billing process.
• Landlord-Paid, Tenant-Reimbursed: Your lease should specify the method and timing for repayment—such as a monthly bill added to your rent.
• No Mention in Lease: The landlord is generally responsible for trash and recycling charges.

If you think you are being overcharged, you can request a breakdown of the utility charges. For more help, the Washington State Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resource provides guidance.^[2]

Official Forms Related to Utility Disputes

• Repairs, Service, or Utility Complaint (Tenants): This is typically a Consumer Complaint Form that tenants can use to notify landlords or city authorities about improper charges or shutoff of utilities. Use this if your landlord disconnects service or charges you fees not listed in your lease.
• Notice of Conditions for Termination or Deductions: Under RCW 59.18.280, landlords must provide an itemized statement for any withheld or deducted utility costs from your deposit at move-out.

Practical Example: If you discover a new trash fee on your monthly bill that was not agreed to in your lease, use the Consumer Complaint Form above to raise the issue first with your landlord—and, if needed, to the Washington State Attorney General's Office.

Your Rights If You Dispute a Trash or Recycling Charge

Tenants have several paths to resolve disputes over utility billing:

• Check your lease to confirm whether trash and recycling costs are your responsibility.
• Request a detailed statement from your landlord outlining all fees.
• File a complaint using the official forms if you believe you’re being overcharged.
• For unresolved issues, you may apply to the Washington State Courts—usually at your local county district or superior court—to resolve serious disputes.

The legal body handling most tenant-landlord matters in Washington is the district or superior court system. More details are available from the Washington State Courts portal.^[3]

FAQ: Trash and Recycling Charges for Renters in Washington

1. Can my landlord charge me separately for trash or recycling after I move in?
   Only if your rental agreement allows for it. Any new or increased utility charges must be clearly disclosed and agreed upon in writing.
2. What if my lease is silent on trash or recycling?
   If not addressed in your agreement, the landlord is generally responsible for these charges.
3. How can I get proof or a breakdown of charges?
   You have the right to ask your landlord for a detailed breakdown of all utility charges, including copies of actual bills.
4. Who helps resolve trash or utility billing disputes in Washington?
   The Washington State Attorney General’s office and local courts are the main authorities for these disputes.
5. Are there rules if services are included but not provided?
   Yes. If a promised trash or recycling service is missing, you may file a complaint or possibly withhold part of the rent after following the correct legal process.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlords can charge for trash and recycling only if this is agreed in your lease.
• All charges must be disclosed in writing before you sign.
• Disputes can be addressed using official complaint forms or through state courts.

Understanding your utility payment responsibilities helps you avoid surprises and exercise your rights confidently in Washington.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Attorney General—Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Washington State Courts (Find your local district court)
• Washington LawHelp (Legal information and support)
• Washington Department of Commerce – Renter Resources

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1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW Chapter 59.18)
2. Washington Attorney General—Landlord-Tenant Resources
3. Washington State Courts—Find Your Local District Court

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