Landlord Entry Without Notice: Your Rights in Washington

Renters in Washington have strong rights when it comes to privacy within their rented homes. Understanding the rules around landlord entry helps you protect your space and respond appropriately if you believe your rights are being violated. This page explains when landlords can enter, what notice is required, and what steps you can take if your landlord enters without following the law.

Landlord Entry: What the Law Says in Washington

Under RCW 59.18.150 (part of the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act), a landlord must give you proper advance notice before entering your rental unit—except in specific emergencies.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental?

• With Proper Notice (Generally 2 Days):
  • To inspect the premises
  • To make repairs or improvements
  • To show the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or contractors
  • For agreed services
• In Emergencies (No Notice Required):
  • Fire, flooding, or immediate threats to the property or occupant safety
  • Suspected abandonment

Aside from emergency situations, your landlord must give you at least 2 days’ written notice before entering your home. If showing the unit to new tenants or buyers, they must give you 1 day’s written notice.^[1]

How Must Notice Be Given?

• Notice must be written (email counts, or a paper notice delivered to you).
• The notice should specify the intended date and time of entry and the reason for entry.

If your landlord enters without consent or proper notice (and it’s not an emergency), it may be a violation of your rights under Washington state law.

Common Scenarios and What to Do

• Your landlord enters without notice or permission: Politely remind your landlord in writing that notice is legally required except in emergencies. Keep records of all communications.
• Your landlord repeatedly enters without notice: Document each incident and send a formal written request asking them to comply with the state notice rules. If the issue continues, you may file a complaint or seek legal help (see below for resources).
• If you need repairs and the landlord schedules entry: Landlords must still give proper notice unless it’s an urgent emergency repair.

Relevant Forms Renters Can Use

• Tenant’s Notice to Landlord: Request to Comply with Entry Laws
  • This is a notice letter you can write and deliver to your landlord if they enter without proper notice. There is no official state form, but you can use the model letter available from the Washington Attorney General’s Office.
  • When to use it: If the landlord enters without the correct notice. Save a copy for your own records.
  • Sample Letter: Tenant’s Notice to Landlord
• Complaint to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office
  • Use the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form if your landlord repeatedly violates entry laws and you need state assistance.
  • When to use it: Only after you’ve tried to resolve the issue directly with your landlord without success.

Who Handles Disputes in Washington?

Washington does not have a specialized residential tenancy tribunal. However, disputes can be handled in local District or Superior Courts, or you may get help from the Washington State Attorney General’s Office Landlord-Tenant Program.

Tip: In case of an emergency or if you feel threatened, contact your local law enforcement for immediate assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Landlord Entry in Washington

1. Can my landlord enter my rental without notice if they suspect an emergency?
   Yes. Landlords may enter without notice during emergencies that threaten property or occupant safety, such as fire or flooding.
2. What if my landlord keeps entering without giving notice?
   Document each incident. Send a written notice asking them to follow proper procedures. If it continues, you can file a complaint using the official Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form linked above.
3. Can a landlord enter for repairs without notice?
   Except in cases of urgent emergency repairs, landlords must provide notice at least 2 days in advance.
4. Does the notice requirement apply if I am home?
   Yes. Notice rules apply regardless of whether you are home at the time—except if you have given permission for entry.
5. Where can I find the specific law about landlord entry?
   You can read the law at RCW 59.18.150 – Landlord Entry.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords generally must give 2 days’ written notice before entering your rental in Washington.
• No notice is required in emergencies, but for everything else, you have the right to privacy.
• If your landlord breaks the rules, you can document the incidents, send a formal request to comply, and file a complaint using official state resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Attorney General’s Office – Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
• Washington Law Help – Tenant Rights Information
• Contact your local District or Superior Court for legal proceedings relating to landlord-tenant disputes

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1. RCW 59.18.150 – Entry by landlord (Washington State Legislature)
2. Washington State Attorney General’s Office – Landlord-Tenant Program

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