What if I partially pay the rent owed during the 14-day notice period?

If you do not pay the full amount required in the notice, the landlord can still proceed with eviction. Only full payment of all rent due within 14 days will cure the notice.

Can I be evicted immediately for a lease violation?

Generally, Washington law gives tenants a chance to fix most lease violations first. Some serious violations, like illegal activity, may allow faster action.

How must the notice be delivered?

The notice must be served in writing and delivered either personally, by leaving it at the rental unit with someone of suitable age, or by posting it conspicuously plus mailing it.

What can I do if I disagree with the notice or think it is unfair?

You can seek legal help or contest it in eviction court. Use resources listed in the article's support section to get legal advice specific to your situation.

Understanding Cure or Quit Notices for Washington Renters

Evictions & Lease Violations Washington published: June 21, 2025

If you’re renting in Washington and have received a “cure or quit” notice from your landlord, it’s important to know what it means, what your rights are, and how to respond. Washington law provides specific protections and procedures for tenants in these situations. This guide explains cure or quit notices, relevant forms, timelines, and practical steps for renters.

What Is a Cure or Quit Notice in Washington?

A cure or quit notice is a formal document from your landlord telling you that you have breached your lease—such as by not paying rent, violating building rules, or causing damage. The notice gives you a chance to "cure" (fix) the problem within a certain number of days, or you must move out ("quit") the rental unit.

If you fix the problem in time, you can stay in your home.
If you do not, your landlord can start the eviction process.

This system is designed to give tenants a fair opportunity to correct issues before facing legal action.

Types of Cure or Quit Notices in Washington

Washington law recognizes several types of notices depending on the issue:

14-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate: For unpaid rent. You have 14 days to pay all rent owed or move out.
10-Day Notice to Comply or Vacate: For lease violations like unauthorized pets, subletting, or other non-rent-related breaches. You have 10 days to correct the issue or leave.
3-Day Notice to Quit: Used for serious situations like illegal activities in the unit; generally, no option to "cure."

These notices are governed by the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).^[1]

What Must a Cure or Quit Notice Include?

A valid notice must be:

Written (not just verbal)
Clearly state the violation
Give the appropriate number of days to cure or vacate
List the total amount owed (for unpaid rent notices)
Provide instructions on how to cure the issue (pay, remove an unauthorized pet, etc.)

Official Forms for Notices

14-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate (Form DOL Agency 14-Day)
- Purpose: Used when a tenant is behind on rent.
- Example: If you missed rent for June, your landlord can serve you this form. You then have 14 days to pay in full or move out. View the official WA Attorney General sample forms here.
10-Day Notice to Comply or Vacate (Form DOL Agency 10-Day)
- Purpose: Used for violations like unauthorized occupants or pets, or failing to follow other lease rules.
- Example: If you have a pet that is not allowed by your lease, you may receive this notice giving you 10 days to remove the pet or move out. Access official notice forms from the Attorney General.
3-Day Notice to Quit
- Purpose: Used for major violations (like illegal activity), usually without a cure option.
- Note: This notice is uncommon for standard lease breaches and is only for severe situations.

If you receive any of these notices, carefully read the details and act quickly.

What Should Tenants Do If They Receive a Notice?

Responding quickly can help you avoid eviction. Here’s what to do:

Read the Notice Carefully: Make sure it is complete and accurate.
Fix the Problem (Cure): Pay owed rent, remove the unauthorized pet, or address whatever the notice describes, within the required days.
Keep Proof: Keep receipts, communications, or photos proving you fixed the problem.
Communicate in Writing: If you cure the problem, notify the landlord in writing and keep a copy for your records.
Seek Help: If you believe the notice is incorrect or unfair, reach out to legal resources (see "Need Help? Resources for Renters").

If you do not respond or move by the deadline, your landlord may file an eviction case with the relevant authority.

Who Handles Eviction Cases in Washington?

Eviction proceedings in Washington are handled by the local Washington State Courts. Both landlords and tenants must follow proper court procedures, and tenants have the right to respond in court.

More information and resources can be found via the King County District Court Landlord-Tenant Resource Page (for King County) and statewide through Washington Courts’ landlord-tenant resources.

Important Timelines and What Happens Next

You usually have 14 days for nonpayment of rent or 10 days for other lease violations to correct the problem or move.
If you do not cure or move, your landlord can file for eviction (called an "Unlawful Detainer Action") in court.
You will receive court paperwork and have a chance to respond or appear before a judge.

If you cure the problem on time, the landlord cannot evict you for the listed violation. Always keep documentation of any action you take.

Legislation Governing Notices

The law guiding these processes is the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).^[1] This law outlines notice periods, tenant rights, landlord obligations, and eviction procedures in Washington.

FAQs: Cure or Quit Notices for Washington Tenants

What if I partially pay the rent owed during the 14-day notice period?
If you do not pay the full amount required in the notice, the landlord can still proceed with eviction. Only full payment of all rent due within 14 days will cure the notice.
Can I be evicted immediately for a lease violation?
Generally, Washington law gives tenants a chance to fix most lease violations first. Some serious violations, like illegal activity, may allow faster action.
How must the notice be delivered?
The notice must be served in writing and delivered either personally, by leaving it at the rental unit with someone of suitable age, or by posting it conspicuously plus mailing it.
What can I do if I disagree with the notice or think it is unfair?
You can seek legal help or contest it in eviction court. Use resources listed below to get legal advice specific to your situation.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

Cure or quit notices give you a set time to fix a lease violation or pay overdue rent before eviction proceedings.
Respond quickly, communicate in writing, and keep records of any action you take.
If you have questions or need help, reach out to tenant advocacy or legal assistance resources.

Knowing your rights and obligations can help you resolve issues early and stay in your home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Washington State Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Information: Comprehensive guides and official notice forms.
Washington Law Help – Tenant Resources: Free legal information for renters in Washington.
Washington State Courts: Information about eviction court processes.
King County District Court Landlord/Tenant Resources.

Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)