Sealing an Eviction Record in Washington: A Renter's Guide

If you've experienced an eviction in Washington, you may worry about how it impacts your ability to rent a new home. Sealing your eviction record can remove public access to that information, improving your chances with future landlords. This article explains how renters in Washington can apply to seal an eviction record, the forms required, and important state resources.

What Does It Mean to Seal an Eviction Record?

When an eviction case is filed, it's usually added to court records accessible by landlords and screening companies. Sealing an eviction record means making the court records private, so they won’t appear in most background checks.

Can You Seal an Eviction Record in Washington?

Yes, Washington law allows tenants to ask the court to seal their eviction records in specific circumstances. Generally, sealing is possible if:

• The eviction case was dismissed, decided in your favor, or there was no finding that you violated the lease.
• There are “compelling circumstances” (like retaliation or domestic violence) or the public interest outweighs the case being public.

Each case is unique, so the judge will make a final decision based on details of your situation.

Which Tribunal Handles Eviction Records in Washington?

Eviction cases in Washington are filed in the Washington State District and Superior Courts, depending on the county. Sealing is done by petitioning the court where your case was filed.

Relevant Washington Tenancy Law

Tenant protections and the sealing of eviction records are governed by Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) and RCW 59.18.367 - Eviction Record Sealing. This legislation details your rights and the grounds for sealing eviction records in Washington.

Step-by-Step: How to Seal Your Eviction Record in Washington

Sealing an eviction record requires you to file a formal request with the court. Here’s a summary of the main steps:

• Obtain a copy of your eviction court record from the court clerk where your eviction case occurred.
• Complete the Motion to Seal Eviction Record (no official state-wide form, but local courts provide templates). For example, King County Superior Court offers a Motion to Seal Eviction Record form.
• File the completed motion and supporting documents with the court clerk where the eviction case was heard.
• Serve a copy to your former landlord (the other party in the case).
• Attend the scheduled court hearing. The judge will consider your motion and any opposition from the landlord.
• If approved, the judge will sign an order sealing the court record.

It's a good idea to contact your local court or a legal aid organization to help with the motion process and obtain the correct forms.

Important Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Motion to Seal Eviction Record (form varies by county):
  Use this to request the court seal your eviction record. For renters in King County, access the official King County form. Complete all sections about the case, your reasons, and attach supporting evidence. Example: "Julie had an eviction case dismissed and files the Motion to Seal Eviction Record with copies of the dismissal order attached."
• Order on Motion to Seal Eviction Record (form varies by county):
  After the hearing, the judge will sign this order if approving the motion. Request your signed Order from the court clerk as proof that the record is sealed. See a sample King County Order on Motion.

After Sealing: What Changes for Renters?

When your eviction record is sealed:

• Screening companies and landlords generally will not see the sealed case in background checks.
• Your history is not automatically erased from credit reports or rental databases—contact them separately if needed.

Key Points to Remember

• Not all eviction records can be sealed. If your case resulted in a judgment against you, approval may be less likely unless there are special circumstances.
• You may file the motion at any time after the case ends unless the court decision states otherwise.
• Stay organized—keep copies of all filed documents and written proof of service on your former landlord.

It can be helpful to work with a legal aid organization or court facilitator, especially for first-time filers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can anyone seal an eviction record in Washington?
   Not every case is eligible—generally, the court must find a good reason (such as dismissal, favorable outcome, or public interest) to approve your request.
2. Does sealing my eviction record remove it from all databases?
   Sealing removes the court record from public view, but you should check with credit bureaus and tenant screening agencies separately to see if your record still appears.
3. How long does the process take?
   Processing time varies by county, but it may take several weeks from filing your motion to receiving a court decision, depending on hearing schedules and court workload.
4. Is there a filing fee for sealing an eviction record?
   There may be a court filing fee, but some tenants are eligible for a fee waiver. Contact your local court to ask about fee waivers and current costs.
5. Where do I find the eviction record sealing forms?
   Forms are usually available on your local county court’s website. For King County, the forms are on the King County Courts' eviction page.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Courts main portal: Find your county court and download local forms.
• Washington LawHelp: Guides and sample forms for sealing eviction records.
• Washington State Attorney General—Landlord-Tenant Resources: Official rights, complaint information, and support links.
• Contact your county court's self-help or facilitator office for assistance with forms and filing.

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1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. RCW 59.18.367 – Sealing of Eviction Records
3. Washington State Courts
4. King County Superior Court – Eviction Resources

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