Do short-term vacation renters have the same rights as long-term tenants in Washington?

For stays under 30 days, some tenant protections may apply. If you overstay, sign a lease, or start paying monthly, you may have full rights under the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.

Can a landlord evict me from a short-term rental without notice?

No. Landlords must provide a written notice to terminate your stay, and court involvement may be necessary for formal eviction.

How do I get my security deposit back from a vacation rental?

Request an itemized receipt when paying, and upon departure ask for your deposit. If it's withheld unlawfully, send a written demand citing RCW 59.18.280.

Can my landlord enter my vacation rental at any time?

Landlords must typically provide at least 2 days’ written notice before entering unless there is an emergency.

What should I do if my short-term rental rights are violated?

Document the issue and contact state agencies like the Washington Attorney General's Office or your city housing office for help.

Washington Renter Rights for Short-Term Vacation Rentals

Special Housing Types & Situations Washington published June 21, 2025

Are you renting a property in Washington as a short-term vacation stay—through companies like Airbnb, VRBO, or similar platforms? Understanding your rights as a renter in Washington is crucial, especially with unique rules for vacation rentals that differ from traditional leases. Whether you have questions about deposits, eviction processes, or what maintenance is required, knowing where you stand can help you protect your interests during your stay.

What Is a Short-Term Vacation Rental in Washington?

In Washington State, a short-term vacation rental typically refers to renting a dwelling for less than 30 consecutive days at a time. These arrangements are often through online platforms or managed by property owners directly.

Short-term rentals are not always covered by the same laws as traditional residential tenancies. However, important rights and responsibilities still apply, especially if your stay exceeds 14 days, you become a "guest" transitioning into a "tenant," or if there is a written rental agreement.

Which Laws and Agencies Govern Short-Term Rentals?

The main law covering landlord-tenant relationships in Washington is the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)^[1]. For short-term vacation rentals under 30 days, the law may apply differently. Local city or county rules may also affect your rights, especially in cities like Seattle or Spokane that regulate vacation rentals.

The main Washington landlord-tenant authority is the Washington State Office of the Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Information.
Seattle-specific tenants: Refer to the City of Seattle Renting in Seattle program for additional protections.
Disputes may be brought to your county district court.

What Are Your Rights as a Short-Term Renter?

Even in short-term arrangements, you have important protections. Here are key areas to consider:

Security Deposits: Washington law requires landlords to provide a written rental agreement and a move-in checklist if they collect a deposit. You have the right to an itemized statement when the deposit is returned (RCW 59.18.260).
Eviction (Unlawful Detainer): If you stay longer than the agreed period or violate terms, the landlord must follow formal eviction steps—serving a proper notice. For short stays, they usually must provide a written notice to vacate, but forcible removal without court involvement is illegal.
Quiet Enjoyment and Repairs: Renters have a right to peaceful use of the property and timely repairs for essential services (like heat, water, or electricity), as outlined in RCW 59.18.060.
Discrimination: It's illegal for landlords to discriminate based on race, sex, disability, or other protected characteristics—see Washington Human Rights Commission Fair Housing.
Notice of Entry: Landlords must generally provide at least 2 days’ notice before entering, except in emergencies (RCW 59.18.150).

Official Forms Renters May Encounter

Depending on your rental situation, you might need or receive one of the following:

Notice to Terminate Tenancy (No Form Number): Used by landlords to notify renters about ending the tenancy (required to be in writing). Example: If you have stayed beyond your reservation period and refuse to leave, a written notice may be served. For more, see Landlord-Tenant Notices – WA Attorney General.
Washington Residential Rental Inspection Checklist: Required if the landlord collects a deposit. Example: Upon check-in, ask your host for a move-in checklist to note the condition of the property. Download from Sample Checklist PDF (Attorney General).
Summons and Complaint for Unlawful Detainer: If a formal eviction is initiated, the landlord must serve these court forms. More info at Washington Courts – Eviction Forms.

When Does a Short-Term Renter Become a Tenant?

If a guest stays beyond the agreed date, pays rent monthly, or establishes residency (such as moving in mail or belongings), Washington law may recognize them as a tenant, with full protections under the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act. In these cases, the landlord must follow formal eviction processes and cannot simply lock you out or remove your belongings.

Your Action Steps for Protection

Always ask for a written rental agreement and an itemized receipt of any payments or deposits.
If you receive notice to end your stay or face possible eviction, do not ignore it—respond in writing promptly.
Keep copies of all communications with the property owner or manager.
If repairs are needed, submit your request in writing and keep a record.
If you believe your rights have been violated, contact the relevant city or state resources listed below.

Proactive communication and thorough documentation are your strongest tools.

FAQ: Washington Vacation Renter Rights

Do short-term vacation renters have the same rights as long-term tenants in Washington? For stays under 30 days, some tenant protections apply, but not all. If you overstay, pay rent monthly, or sign a formal lease, you may gain full tenant rights under state law.
Can a landlord evict me from a vacation rental without notice? No. Even for short-term rentals, landlords must follow proper process, which usually includes a written notice and, if needed, a court order.
What should I do if my deposit is not returned? Ask for an itemized statement and, if not provided, submit a written demand citing RCW 59.18.280. If it remains unresolved, contact the Attorney General’s office.
Can the landlord enter without warning? No. At least 2 days' notice must be given unless there is an emergency.
Where can I report a violation of my vacation renter rights? Start with the Washington State Office of the Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Program or your local city housing agency.

Key Takeaways for Washington Short-Term Vacation Renters

Short-term stays have some—but not all—tenant protections under Washington law.
Written agreements, proper deposit handling, and legal notice for eviction are critical protections.
Be proactive in documenting your stay and communicating with owners or platforms.

These basics help you protect your rights and navigate a short-term stay in Washington safely and confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Washington State Office of the Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Information: Comprehensive guides and complaint forms.
Washington State Courts – Eviction (Unlawful Detainer) Information: Official resources for responding to or initiating eviction actions.
Washington State Human Rights Commission: Fair Housing: For discrimination complaints and educational materials.
City of Seattle Renting in Seattle: Specific help for renters within Seattle city limits.

[1] Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)