Washington Rules for Hotel and Motel Tenants

Staying long-term in a hotel or motel in Washington State? You have important rights—even if your home doesn’t look traditional. This guide will help you understand your protections, processes, and where you can turn for help if issues arise under Washington’s laws.

When Does Hotel or Motel Stay Become a Tenancy?

In Washington, your rights as a renter depend on how long you've stayed and your relationship with the property. If you have stayed in the same hotel or motel for 30 consecutive days or more, you may be considered a tenant under the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RLTA)^[1]. This grants you protections similar to a traditional rental.

Key factors affecting your rights:

• Length of Stay: Stays shorter than 30 days are usually considered "transient," meaning you’re not protected as a tenant under the RLTA.
• Payment Arrangements: Paying weekly or monthly can sometimes signal tenancy, especially if there’s an agreement or the operator treats you like a long-term guest.
• Room Assignment: Consistently assigned the same room can be a sign of tenancy.

For detailed guidance, see the Washington State Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Information page.

Your Rights as a Long-Term Hotel or Motel Resident

Once you are recognized as a tenant (30+ days), you:

• Cannot be locked out or evicted without formal legal process.
• Have rights to "quiet enjoyment" and proper notice for things like repairs or rent increases.
• Must be given proper notice before termination of your tenancy—usually at least 20 days’ written notice for no-cause evictions.
• Are protected from summary lockout, unless you waive rights in writing or are removed for criminal activity.

Note that rules may still differ for certain types of hotels/motels; always check your specific agreement.

Eviction Rules in Hotels and Motels

If you’re recognized as a tenant, the owner must follow state eviction requirements:

• You must receive a written notice (often a 14-Day Notice to Pay or Vacate) for nonpayment of rent.
• They may not remove your belongings or change locks without a court order.
• If you haven't reached 30 days, you may be removed as a guest, not as a tenant—but the innkeeper still can’t use force or self-help.

Important Forms & Where to Find Them

• 14-Day Notice to Pay or Vacate — required if the operator seeks eviction for nonpayment once you are considered a tenant.
  Download the official form.
  Example: If you miss a weekly payment after 30 days, you must receive this notice before any eviction can begin.
• Summons & Complaint for Unlawful Detainer — filed by the owner to the court to start the formal eviction process. You’ll receive these documents if the process goes to court.
  Learn about the landlord-tenant court process.

Hotel/motel operators may also provide a written agreement at move-in. Always keep a copy for your records!

How to Challenge a Wrongful Lockout or Eviction

If you believe your rights as a hotel/motel tenant are being violated in Washington:

• Call law enforcement to report an illegal lockout.
• Document all communications and gather receipts, agreements, or proof of payment.
• Consider filing a complaint with the Washington State Attorney General’s Office.
• You may also file a case in Superior Court if your belongings are held unlawfully.

Ready to take action? Here’s how to submit a complaint:

Action Steps to File a Complaint with Washington State Attorney General

• Gather documentation: receipts, correspondence, and details about the issue.
• Go to the official complaint portal and select "Landlord/Tenant" for your issue.
• Fill out the complaint form with your contact, hotel/motel information, and a description of the situation.
• Submit and track your complaint online.

For court matters (such as illegal eviction), the tribunal handling residential tenancy issues in Washington is the Washington State Courts (Superior Court and District Court).

FAQ: Hotel and Motel Tenancy Rules in Washington

1. Do I have tenant rights if I stay in a hotel for more than 30 days?
   Yes. After 30 days of continuous occupancy, you are generally protected under Washington rental laws and cannot be evicted without notice and court process.
2. Can a hotel manager lock me out for nonpayment before 30 days?
   Hotel and motel guests (<30 days) may be removed as "guests" not tenants, but operators cannot use force or self-help methods and must follow civil procedures.
3. How can I prove I’m a tenant and not just a guest?
   Show proof of payment history, written agreements, duration of your stay (over 30 days), and consistent use of the same room.
4. What should I do if my belongings are held after lockout?
   Contact law enforcement and consider filing a complaint with the Attorney General or in Superior Court for unlawful retention of property.
5. Where can I get help with a hotel/motel tenancy dispute?
   Contact the Washington Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Program or your local courthouse for resources.

Key Takeaways

• Stay longer than 30 consecutive days? Washington law likely treats you as a tenant, not just a hotel guest.
• You cannot be evicted or locked out without proper notice and court order after 30 days.
• If you feel your rights are violated, official help is available from state agencies and courts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program — information, complaint forms, and guidance
• Washington State Courts — tribunal for tenancy disputes and eviction cases
• File a Complaint with the Attorney General
• Tenant Rights Resources from the State

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1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18)
2. Washington State Attorney General - Landlord-Tenant Act Guidance
3. Washington Courts: 14-Day Pay or Vacate Notice Form
4. Washington State Courts: Residential Landlord-Tenant Cases

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