Washington Renters: Safe Drinking Water Standards Explained

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Washington, you have the right to clean, safe drinking water. Understanding these protections can help you advocate for healthy living conditions and know what to do if something goes wrong. The Evergreen State sets standards for landlords to ensure rental properties meet important health and safety requirements, including access to potable (safe to drink) water. This guide explains what’s required, how to respond if your water isn’t safe, and where to get official support.

Your Right to Safe Drinking Water in Washington Rentals

State law requires landlords to provide safe and sanitary water in rental properties. Under Washington’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, every rental unit must have connections to a potable water supply that meets health department standards.^[1]

• Water must be safe for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• Fixtures and plumbing must be properly maintained to avoid contamination.
• Landlords are responsible for repairs if water becomes unsafe due to plumbing or supply issues.

Washington’s Department of Health sets standards for public and private water systems, including testing and treatment rules. Landlords who provide water from private wells (common in rural rentals) must make sure the water’s quality meets state guidelines for drinking water.

Common Water Issues in Rentals

• Discoloration, odor, or unusual taste in tap water
• Leaks or plumbing issues causing contamination
• Well water not regularly tested, putting renters at risk for bacteria or chemicals

If you notice signs of unsafe water, notify your landlord in writing. They’re usually required to fix the issue promptly. If the problem isn’t resolved, you have options for further action.

What If My Water Isn’t Safe? Steps for Washington Renters

If you believe your water is not safe to drink:

• Notify your landlord in writing right away. Be clear about what you’re experiencing (such as odor, odd color, or taste).
• Request water testing if you’re on a private well or have ongoing problems. Landlords are responsible for ensuring compliance with health standards.
• Keep copies of all communication.

Official Forms Renters Can Use

• Washington Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form – Use this if your landlord won’t fix unsafe water issues after written notice.
  • When to use: After notifying your landlord and waiting a reasonable time (generally up to 10 days for health and safety issues), if the issue remains unresolved.
  • How to use: Fill out the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form provided by the Washington State Attorney General.
• Environmental Health Drinking Water Complaint Form (varies by county)
  • When to use: If you suspect serious contamination, file a drinking water quality complaint with your local county health department.
  • Example: In King County, use the Drinking Water Quality Complaint Form.

The Tribunal Handling Residential Tenancy Disputes

Washington does not use a single tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes. Instead, renters can bring cases to their local district or superior court. For informal complaints, the Attorney General’s Office offers mediation and resources for renters and landlords.

Relevant Legislation for Safe Water in Rentals

• Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
• Drinking Water Regulations (WAC 246-290)

These laws require landlords to maintain rental units so they are fit for human habitation, including providing potable water and proper plumbing.

Caring for your health starts at home. If you’re worried about water quality, document problems early and ask for testing. It’s both your right and your landlord’s responsibility to make sure water is safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do first if I suspect my rental water is unsafe?
   Notify your landlord in writing and describe the problem. Request immediate testing or repairs and keep a record of your communication.
2. Is my landlord required to test my water in Washington?
   If you’re on a private well or report water issues, your landlord must ensure the water meets state standards. Regular testing is required for some private systems.
3. Where can I file a complaint if my landlord doesn’t respond?
   You can file a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s Office or your county health department using their drinking water complaint forms.
4. Can I withhold rent if my water isn’t fixed?
   Washington law allows for certain remedies, including paying for repairs and deducting the cost or, in severe cases, moving out, but you must follow correct legal procedures. Seek legal advice before withholding rent.
5. Which Washington agency sets safe drinking water standards?
   The Washington State Department of Health establishes and enforces drinking water standards across the state.

Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

• Landlords must provide safe, potable water according to Washington law.
• If water is unsafe, notify your landlord in writing and request testing or repairs.
• Use official complaint forms and contact agencies if issues aren’t resolved.

Knowing your rights and where to turn for help gives you power to protect your health and home safety.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington Attorney General – Landlord Tenant Resources
• Washington Department of Health – Drinking Water Program
• Washington Law Help – Housing Conditions and Tenants' Rights
• List of County Health Departments (for reporting water quality issues locally)
• Washington Courts – Tenant Legal Actions

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1. RCW 59.18.060 – Landlord’s Duties to Provide Safe Water
2. Washington State Department of Health – Drinking Water
3. WAC 246-290: Drinking Water Regulations

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