What should I do if I get an eviction notice in Washington?

Contact a legal aid agency immediately, review your documents, and file a Notice of Appearance and an Answer form with the court to protect your rights.

Can I get a free lawyer if I can't afford one for an eviction?

Yes. Washington's Right to Counsel program provides free lawyers for eligible renters facing eviction. Apply through OCLA or a local legal aid office.

Where can I find official tenant forms in Washington?

All official landlord-tenant court forms are available on the Washington State Court Forms page.

How does the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act protect me?

It outlines your rights regarding repairs, deposits, notice, and how eviction must be handled. See RCW 59.18 for full details.

Who do I contact for urgent repair issues?

Give written notice to your landlord first. If unresolved, contact Northwest Justice Project or other legal aid groups for support.

Free Legal Aid for Washington Renters: Trusted Resources & Forms

Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Washington published June 21, 2025

If you're a renter in Washington and facing issues like eviction, rent disputes, or repair concerns, understanding where to turn for free legal help is crucial. Washington renters have rights protected by state law, and there are trusted government and nonprofit resources to provide guidance, forms, and even representation. This guide highlights the key legal aid agencies, official forms, relevant tenant laws, and how to take action.

Your Rights as a Washington Renter

Washington renters are protected by the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18). This law covers matters like security deposits, rent increases, notice requirements, and eviction steps. The official agency that oversees residential tenancy disputes is the Washington State Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Program. For court matters (such as eviction cases), the process runs through local Washington State Courts.

Free Legal Aid Resources for Renters

Several statewide programs help Washington tenants with legal advice and representation, especially if you cannot afford an attorney:

Northwest Justice Project (NJP)—Offers free legal help to low-income renters for eviction, repair, discrimination, and other issues.
Washington LawHelp—Provides easy-to-read guides and self-help tools about your rights and legal steps.
Office of Civil Legal Aid (OCLA) Right to Counsel Program—State-funded attorneys for eligible renters facing evictions.
Solid Ground Tenant Services—Hotline and support for tenant-landlord questions statewide.
Washington State Department of Licensing—Landlord Tenant Resources

These agencies can provide phone advice, help you complete official forms, or—if you qualify—arrange for a lawyer to represent you in court.

Official Tenant Forms: What You May Need

Washington provides standard legal forms for housing disputes. Here are some you might need as a renter:

Notice of Appearance (No. WPF ED-01.0700):
View and download the Notice of Appearance
Use when you receive an eviction (unlawful detainer) summons. Filing this tells the court you want to participate and defend yourself. Example: If you get court papers about an eviction, submitting this form stops your landlord from getting a default judgment against you.
Answer to Unlawful Detainer (Eviction) (No. WPF ED-01.0800):
View and download the Answer form
Use to explain your defenses and facts if your landlord is trying to evict you in court. Example: You can state if the landlord didn't follow correct notice procedures or failed to keep up with repairs.
Motion and Declaration for Show Cause Hearing (No. WPF ED-01.1100):
View and download the Motion for Show Cause form
Use to ask the court for a hearing if you want to explain your situation before an eviction occurs.
Motion for Continuance (Postponement) (No. WPF ED-01.1200):
View and download the Motion for Continuance
Use to request more time before your eviction hearing, often if you’re seeking legal help or need extra time to gather evidence.

Always check the Washington Courts' official forms page for landlord-tenant disputes for the most current versions and instructions.

How to Take Action if Facing Eviction in Washington

If you are served with eviction papers ("Summons and Complaint for Unlawful Detainer"), here is a step-by-step summary:

Read all documents carefully and note any deadlines.
File a Notice of Appearance immediately to avoid default judgment.
Complete and file the Answer to Unlawful Detainer form to tell your side.
Contact a legal aid resource (see above) right away for free help or to see if you qualify for a court-appointed lawyer.
Gather and organize any evidence (emails, photos, repair requests).

If you’re not sure which form to use or how to fill them out, contact Northwest Justice Project or Office of Civil Legal Aid—they will guide you for free.

What is Washington’s Tenant-Landlord Tribunal?

Washington does not have a dedicated landlord-tenant tribunal. However, all official disputes—such as evictions—are handled through the Washington State Courts. You can use the official court forms and seek help from legal aid agencies before your court date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I get an eviction notice in Washington?
Contact a legal aid agency right away, review your documents carefully, and file a Notice of Appearance and an Answer form with the court. Acting quickly protects your rights.
Can I get a free lawyer if I can't afford one for an eviction?
Yes. Washington's Right to Counsel program provides free lawyers to qualifying renters facing eviction. Apply through the Office of Civil Legal Aid or ask a legal aid agency to help you sign up.
Where can I find official tenant forms in Washington?
All landlord-tenant court forms are available on the Washington State Court Forms portal.
How does the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act protect me?
The Act details your rights in areas like repairs, security deposits, notice for entering your home, and how/when you can be evicted. For details, visit RCW 59.18.
Who do I contact for urgent repair issues?
Start by giving your landlord a written notice. If there's no response, legal aid groups like Northwest Justice Project can help you take further steps or seek court support.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Free legal aid and official forms are available for Washington renters dealing with disputes or eviction.
The Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) is your main legal protection—know your rights!
If facing eviction, act fast and get help from approved agencies—the right forms and guidance can make all the difference.

By understanding your options and using official resources, you can protect your housing rights and address issues with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Northwest Justice Project Client Intake – Apply for free legal help online or call 1-888-201-1014.
Office of Civil Legal Aid (Right to Counsel) – Find out about free lawyers for eviction defense.
Washington LawHelp – Self-help legal guides and forms.
Read the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).
Official Court Forms for Landlord-Tenant Disputes.
Washington State Department of Licensing: Landlord Tenant Resources.