How to Avoid Affordable Housing Scams in Washington

Seeking affordable housing in Washington can be stressful, especially with the rise of rental scams targeting renters looking for low-cost options. Understanding how to identify and report these scams can help you protect your money, credit, and future housing opportunities.

Common Affordable Housing Scams in Washington

Rental scams can show up in several ways, and scammers often target people searching for affordable rentals or assistance programs. Stay alert for these common red flags:

• Fake Rental Listings: Scammers copy real listings, asking for deposits or fees before you can see the apartment.
• Upfront ‘Application Fees’: Unofficial landlords request money for applications, background checks, or holding deposits with no real property.
• Promises of Immediate Approval: Anyone offering guaranteed approval for subsidized housing or claiming they can ‘move you to the top of the list’ for a fee is not legitimate.
• Requests to Pay via Untraceable Methods: Be wary if you’re asked for payments through wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
• Fake Government or Nonprofit Agencies: Scammers may impersonate housing authorities or nonprofits to collect personal information or payments.

Recognizing Legitimate Affordable Housing Programs

Washington’s official affordable housing programs are administered through government agencies and trusted nonprofits. You should never have to pay to apply for placement on a subsidized housing waitlist. Always verify with the following resources:

• Washington State Housing Finance Commission: The official agency administering affordable housing programs and information.
• WA Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) – Rental Assistance
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Washington State Resources

How Washington Law Protects Renters

Washington’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) sets rules for rental agreements, landlord conduct, and tenant rights.¹ It is illegal for anyone to falsely advertise a rental, demand illegal fees, or misrepresent themselves as landlords. The Washington Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant resource portal provides guides and complaint procedures.

What to Do if You Suspect a Rental Scam

If you think you’ve encountered a scam while searching for affordable housing or rental assistance in Washington, follow these steps:

• Do not send money or share sensitive information (SSN, bank details, etc.).
• Save all communications and advertisement screenshots.
• Verify the property's address and ownership with local county tax records.
• Contact the building management or local housing authority to confirm the listing.
• Report the scam:
• File a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s Office
• Report housing discrimination or scam activity to HUD
• Notify local law enforcement if you lose money or personal information

Relevant Forms for Washington Renters

• Washington Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form
  • Online Consumer Complaint
  • Use this if you suspect fraud or have lost money to a rental scam. Fill out the form online and include evidence such as emails or transaction records.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint (Form 903)
  • HUD Form 903
  • Use this if a scam involves discrimination or misrepresentation of protected groups in housing. Complete and submit via HUD’s official site.

Where to Find Official Affordable Listings

To avoid scams, always search for affordable housing and rental assistance through these verified channels:

• Washington State Housing Finance Commission – for affordable and subsidized rental lists
• HUD's Official Section 8 Search for Washington
• Directly contact property managers or agencies listed on these official portals

The Tribunal for Tenant Issues in Washington

If you face housing-related disputes or suspect illegal rental activity, cases may be heard at your local county district court, under the supervision of the Washington State Courts system. Tenants can also reach out to the Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant section for guidance.

1. What should I do if I paid a scammer for an affordable rental?
   If you sent money to a fraudulent landlord in Washington, immediately notify your bank, file a police report, and submit a complaint to the Washington Attorney General.
2. Are application or deposit fees required to join affordable housing waitlists?
   No. Legitimate affordable housing waitlists administered by agencies like the Washington State Housing Finance Commission are free to join. Be suspicious if you’re asked for upfront fees.
3. How do I verify a property or landlord is legitimate?
   Search property records on the local county assessor’s website and contact listed property managers via official channels. Ask for written proof of ownership if unsure.
4. Who handles rental fraud disputes in Washington State?
   Contact the Attorney General’s Office and, for actual tenancy issues, your local county district court through the Washington State Courts.
5. What state law protects Washington renters against rental scams?
   The Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) mandates truthful advertising and prohibits scams.

Summary: Key Steps to Protect Yourself

• Always use official government and agency sites when searching for affordable housing or assistance.
• Do not pay fees for waitlists or ‘guaranteed’ rental options.
• Report suspicious listings or landlord activity using state complaint resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Housing Finance Commission – Official affordable housing information
• Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Section – Complaint and education portal
• Washington State Courts – For legal proceedings or disputes
• Washington Law Help – Free plain-language legal information and referral
• HUD - Washington State Affordable Housing

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1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. Washington Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Resources
3. Washington State Housing Finance Commission

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