Washington Landlord Move-In Disclosure Rules Explained

Moving into a new rental home in Washington can be exciting, but it’s important to know your rights when it comes to what your landlord must tell you before you sign a lease. Washington law requires landlords to share certain information—called disclosures—to help keep renters informed and protected. Understanding these requirements helps avoid surprises and supports a fair rental relationship.

What Disclosures Must Washington Landlords Provide Before Move-In?

Before a renter moves in, Washington law requires landlords to give tenants several key disclosures. These provide clarity about property conditions, legal rights, fees, and any risks present.

• Written Lease or Rental Agreement: Landlords must provide a written lease if the rental is for one year or longer, or if the tenant requests it. This agreement must include all terms and rules.
• Security Deposit Statement: If any deposit is collected, landlords must provide a written statement detailing conditions for retention, the amount, and where the deposit is held.
• Move-In Condition Checklist: A move-in checklist must be provided, listing the condition of each room and appliance. Both landlord and tenant must sign this. It is required if a security deposit is taken (RCW 59.18.260).
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required for rentals built before 1978. The landlord must give you the EPA's lead paint pamphlet and a signed disclosure form.
• Mold Information: Landlords must provide a state-approved mold informational pamphlet to all tenants (RCW 59.18.060).
• Fire Safety and Evacuation Plans (for certain multi-unit buildings): If the building has an internal hallway and at least two units, the landlord must outline the fire safety system and evacuation routes (see RCW 59.18.060).
• Identity and Address of Owner or Agent: You must be told in writing who is responsible for repairs and where official notices can be served.
• Flood Risk Disclosure: If the property is in a special flood hazard area, disclosure is required (RCW 59.18.030).

Each of these disclosures gives you important information about your new home and your rights as a renter in Washington.

Key Required Forms and Where to Find Them

Washington State Move-In Checklist

• Name/Number: Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (No form number, but Washington law requires its use if a security deposit is collected)
• How/When Used: Provided to the tenant before move-in, this form details the condition of the rental. Both parties sign it, establishing a record if there's a future dispute about the deposit.
  Example: Before you move in, your landlord walks through the unit with you, noting the state of each room and any existing damage. You both sign the checklist to ensure fairness when you move out.
• Link: Official WA State Move-In Checklist (Attorney General)

EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form

• Name/Number: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (no WA state-specific number, but federal law requires it)
• How/When Used: Required for rentals built before 1978. Must be provided and signed by landlord and tenant before move-in.
• Link: EPA Lead Disclosure Rules and Forms

Mold Information Pamphlet

• Name: Mold: Important Information About Mold (provided by WA Department of Health)
• How/When Used: Must be delivered to all new tenants at or before move-in.
• Link: WA State Mold Pamphlet (PDF)

What Happens If a Landlord Doesn’t Give These Disclosures?

If a landlord misses a required disclosure—such as not giving a move-in checklist when collecting a security deposit—it might affect their right to keep that deposit when you move out. Washington law says that in some cases, a landlord cannot keep any part of the deposit unless they followed the law exactly.^[1]

Failure to provide disclosures could also allow tenants to break the lease with proper notice in certain situations, especially if hazardous conditions or false representations were involved.

Who Oversees Landlord and Tenant Disputes in Washington?

Washington does not have a single tribunal for rental disputes, but most landlord-tenant matters are handled in county-level Superior Courts. For help and information, renters often turn to the Washington State Office of the Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant division, which provides guides and complaint information.

Current Legislation Protecting Renters

Washington’s primary tenant law is the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18). It covers disclosures, deposits, maintenance, and most rental rights and responsibilities.

Summary of Your Rights as a Renter

• You have a right to critical information about property conditions and safety before moving in.
• Official forms—like the move-in checklist and lead paint disclosure—must be given to you as required.
• Disclosures help prevent disputes and offer legal protections for tenants in Washington.

Washington Tenant Disclosure FAQs

1. What happens if I do not get a move-in checklist in Washington? Without the checklist, a landlord may not keep any security deposit for damages unless you received and signed the form at move-in, as required by law.
2. Does every rental apartment need a lead paint disclosure? No. Only homes or apartments built before 1978 require the federal lead paint disclosure form and EPA pamphlet before you move in.
3. What if my landlord doesn’t provide the mold pamphlet? Providing this pamphlet is required. If missed, it could affect the landlord’s compliance, but it doesn’t automatically void your lease.
4. Where can I get official forms for move-in documentation? The Washington State Attorney General’s website offers sample forms and checklists for tenants and landlords.
5. Who can I contact for help if my landlord does not follow disclosure rules? You can contact the Office of the Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant division or your local county courthouse for support and enforcement options.

Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

• Washington landlords must provide certain disclosures and forms before you move in, such as the move-in checklist, deposit details, and safety pamphlets.
• Always keep signed, dated copies of any checklist or paperwork you receive at move-in for your records and protection.
• Official guides and help are available from the Washington State Attorney General and other resources if you have concerns.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Section: Free guides, complaint forms, and legal information.
• Washington State Department of Health Mold Information: Health and safety tips for renters.
• Washington Law Help – Housing: Accessible self-help legal information for tenants.
• For enforcement of your rights or to file complaints, visit your local Washington Superior Court.

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1. See RCW 59.18.260 – Condition checklists for security deposits
2. RCW 59.18.060 – Landlord Duties
3. EPA Lead Paint Disclosure Requirements
4. WA Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant
5. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act

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