Lease Agreement requirements in Washington
- Must be in writing if the lease term is for one year or more (Statute of Frauds).
- Include names of all tenants and landlord, property address, and rent amount.
- Specify the lease term, whether fixed or month-to-month.
- Disclose known lead-based paint hazards for properties built before 1978.
- For residential leases, landlord must provide a written receipt for security deposit and notify tenant of their rights.
- Washington does not require notarization for lease agreements to be valid, but witnessing is recommended for evidential purposes.
How to create a Lease Agreement in Washington
- Download a Washington-specific lease template that complies with state laws.
- Fill in all blanks with accurate information, including rent due date, late fees, and utility responsibilities.
- Review landlord's obligations such as maintaining habitable premises and providing essential services.
- Both parties should read the entire agreement, including any addendums like pet agreements or lead paint disclosures.
- Sign and date the lease. While not required, having a witness or notary can help in proving authenticity.
- Provide a copy to the tenant within a reasonable time after signing; it's a legal requirement to give the tenant a signed copy.
What a Lease Agreement typically costs
The cost of a lease agreement in Washington varies: online templates range from $0 to $50, while attorney-drafted leases can cost $200-$500. Filing fees are generally not applicable unless you need to record a memorandum of lease, which costs around $30-$50 depending on the county.
Get your Washington lease agreement template now and ensure your rental is legally compliant.
Create your lease agreementBefore You Begin: WA Lease Checklist
Prepare the essentials for a legally sound Washington lease. Gather documents, know the rules, and avoid common mistakes.
- Verify the property's address and legal description, and confirm you have the authority to rent it.
- Screen tenants and keep records: applications, credit reports, and criminal history (with consent), following fair housing laws.
- Decide on lease terms: rent amount, due date, late fees, security deposit (limits apply in WA), and utilities.
- Be aware of Washington's required disclosures, such as lead-based paint (for pre-1978 units) and any known hazards.
- Prepare the lease in writing and ensure both parties sign; notarization is not required, but witnesses can help prove validity.
- Plan for move-in: schedule a walkthrough with photos and a condition checklist to document the property's state.
Frequently asked questions
Does a lease agreement in Washington need to be notarized?
No, Washington law does not require notarization for a lease agreement to be valid. However, having a notary or witnesses can help in case of a dispute.
What is the maximum security deposit in Washington?
There is no statutory maximum for security deposits in Washington. However, it must be reasonable and specified in the lease. Deposit must be returned within 21 days after move-out.
Can a landlord evict a tenant without a written lease?
Yes, even without a written lease, a rental agreement exists. In Washington, tenants can be evicted for cause (e.g., nonpayment) or no-cause with proper notice. For month-to-month tenancies, 20 days' notice is required.
Are there rent control laws in Washington?
As of now, Washington does not have statewide rent control. However, some cities like Seattle have their own regulations that may cap rent increases or require relocation assistance.