How many days notice does a landlord need to give for non-payment of rent in Washington?

In Washington, a landlord must give 14 days notice to pay or quit before filing for eviction due to non-payment of rent. This is governed by Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW §§ 59.18.010 et seq.).

What is the no-cause notice period for landlords in Washington?

In Washington, landlords must provide 20 days notice to terminate a month-to-month tenancy without cause.

What are the valid grounds for eviction in Washington?

Washington recognizes the following grounds for eviction: Non-payment of rent; Lease violation (10-day cure); Waste or nuisance; Criminal activity; Owner move-in (just cause in some cities).

Washington Landlord-Tenant Law

Q: Is there rent control in Washington?

Washington has rent control provisions. Seattle has a Rental Housing Inspection Ordinance; some cities have relocation assistance rules. No statewide rent cap as of 2026.

Tribunal: Superior Court / District Court

14 Days — Pay or Quit

20 Days — No-Cause Notice

10 Days — Cure or Quit

Notice Periods

Situation	Notice Required
Non-payment of rent	14 days to pay or quit
Month-to-month termination (no cause)	20 days
Lease violation (cure or quit)	10 days

Security Deposit

No statutory cap. Return within 30 days (RCW § 59.18.280).

Grounds for Eviction

Non-payment of rent
Lease violation (10-day cure)
Waste or nuisance
Criminal activity
Owner move-in (just cause in some cities)

Rent Control

Rent Control Applies

Seattle has a Rental Housing Inspection Ordinance; some cities have relocation assistance rules. No statewide rent cap as of 2026.

Electronic Signatures

U.S. ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. §7001) + state UETA adoption

Electronic signatures on leases and notices are valid in Washington. Generate and e-sign a form →

Governing Statute

Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW §§ 59.18.010 et seq.)

Read the full statute →

This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.