What should I do if my rental building’s exit signs aren’t working?

Inform your landlord in writing, document the issue with photos, and contact city code enforcement if the landlord does not resolve the problem.

Are landlords required to test emergency exit lights in Washington?

Yes. Landlords must maintain and test all exit lighting as required by building and fire codes.

Can I file a complaint if my landlord ignores emergency lighting repairs?

Yes. You can submit a complaint to your local code enforcement office or escalate to the Washington Courts if needed.

Do emergency exit lighting laws apply to all Washington rentals?

Most rules apply to multi-unit buildings, but single-family homes may be subject to local codes for shared spaces.

Where can I learn more about Washington’s safety standards for rentals?

Visit the WA Department of Commerce Building Codes and review the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act for up-to-date information.

Washington Emergency Exit Lighting: Renters’ Rights & Landlord Duties

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Washington published June 21, 2025

Washington renters depend on emergency exit lighting for safety during power outages, fires, or urgent building evacuations. Knowing your rights and what’s required under state law can help you ensure your rental home is compliant and safe.

What Counts as Emergency Exit Lighting in Washington Rentals?

Emergency exit lighting includes illuminated “EXIT” signs and lighting that clearly marks pathways to exits. These lights must stay on during emergencies, even if the building loses regular power. This is a basic but crucial part of rental safety.

Exit signs: Must be visible, lit, and mark all exit routes
Emergency lighting: Activated automatically by power failure to guide occupants
Covers stairs, hallways, and any exit route leading outside the building

These safety features save lives by showing the way out when it matters most.

What Does Washington Law Require for Emergency Exit Lighting?

Washington’s State Building Code and Local Fire Codes regulate emergency lighting for rental properties. All multi-unit residential buildings and most rentals built after 1986 must comply. Here are the key requirements:

Landlords must install and maintain clearly marked, illuminated exit signs and emergency lighting in common areas and exit paths¹.
Exit lighting must remain functional during emergencies for at least 90 minutes using backup power.
Annual safety inspections are usually required in larger buildings by the local fire department.

If the lighting doesn’t work or exit signs are missing, it may violate your rights as a tenant under Washington rental law and local safety codes.

Who Enforces These Rules?

The Washington State Department of Commerce – Building Codes and your local fire authority enforce exit sign and lighting rules. Rental housing complaints are usually overseen by your city or county code enforcement office. Washington’s main tenancy tribunal is the Washington State Courts – Landlord/Tenant, which handles disputes and safety complaints.

What Are Your Rights as a Washington Renter?

Washington’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18) requires landlords to maintain all safety systems, including emergency lighting. If these are missing or broken, you have the right to request repairs or report the issue.

You can submit a written repair request if exit lighting isn’t functioning.
If the landlord doesn’t respond, you may file a complaint with building or fire code enforcement.
For serious violations, you can take your landlord to court or involve the local housing authority.

Tip: Always keep written records and photographs when reporting maintenance or safety problems.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

Request for Repairs (No official standard form—use a signed, dated letter or email)
Usage: Send this to your landlord or property manager when you notice malfunctioning emergency exit signs or lighting.
See Sample Repair Request Letter
Complaint to Code Enforcement (varies by city)
Usage: If your landlord doesn’t repair, submit a complaint to your local city code enforcement (e.g., Seattle’s Housing and Building Maintenance Code Complaint form).
Submit a Complaint in Seattle
Washington State Courts – Civil Complaint Form
Usage: If local enforcement is unsuccessful, you can start a civil case. Standard forms are available through the District and Municipal Courts.

If you need to escalate, be prepared to provide written repair requests and any responses or lack thereof.

Action Steps: What Should You Do If Emergency Lighting Is Missing?

Quick summary: Acting as soon as safety issues arise helps ensure you and your neighbors stay protected.

Document the issue (take photos, note locations, record dates)
Send a written repair request to your landlord
If not fixed, submit a complaint form to local code enforcement
Contact your fire department if the situation is urgent or hazardous
Consider legal action through the courts or a housing advocate if unresolved

FAQ: Washington Emergency Exit Lighting Rules for Renters

What should I do if my rental building’s exit signs aren’t working?
Notify your landlord in writing right away, document with photos, and follow up if repairs aren’t made. You can also file a complaint with your city’s code enforcement office.
Are landlords required to test emergency exit lights?
Yes. Landlords must keep all exit lights and signs in working order, including doing necessary testing and replacing bulbs or batteries as required by local code.
What if the landlord doesn’t fix the emergency lighting?
You can escalate by filing a complaint with code enforcement or your fire department, and ultimately take legal action through the local civil courts if necessary.
Does my single-family rental need emergency exit lights?
Most emergency lighting laws apply to multi-unit apartment buildings, but local codes may impose additional requirements—especially in shared hallways or basements.
Where can I find more on Washington rental safety codes?
Review Washington’s Building Energy Codes and the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).

Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

Emergency exit lighting and signage are required in most Washington rentals for your safety.
Landlords must maintain these systems and make repairs quickly when notified.
If repairs are ignored, renters can report the problem to code enforcement or take legal action.

Staying informed about your rights under Washington law empowers you to protect your safety at home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Washington State Courts – Landlord/Tenant Section: For dispute resolution and filing complaints
WA Department of Commerce – Building & Energy Codes: Official code information
Seattle Code Compliance (Submit a Complaint): City-level code enforcement
WashingtonLawHelp: Repairs in Rentals: Guidance on requesting repairs and legal support

See RCW 59.18 - Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Section 59.18.060: Landlord’s Duties)
Washington Administrative Code – Emergency Lighting Requirements
WA State Commerce: Building Codes
Seattle Housing and Building Maintenance Code