State FRBO Guide
Rent Your Property in Washington
Without a Property Manager
Washington-specific lease requirements, security deposit rules, rent control status, and the tools you need to rent it yourself.
Washington Rental Laws at a Glance
Washington law (RCW § 59.18.260) requires a written rental agreement and a written move-in checklist. These are mandatory — oral-only agreements leave landlords exposed.
HB 1236 (2021) created just-cause eviction requirements for most tenancies. Fixed-term leases provide clearer rights than month-to-month.
- ›Move-in checklist (RCW § 59.18.260) — mandatory
- ›Landlord name and address (RCW § 59.18.060)
- ›Mold disclosure
- ›Carbon monoxide alarm disclosure
- ›Bed bug disclosure
- ›Lead paint disclosure (pre-1978)
Deposit agreement must be written and specify deductible conditions. Returned within 30 days.
Washington state law (RCW § 35.21.830) prohibits local rent control. Seattle has pursued legislation but it has not passed as of 2024.
Need a Washington-specific lease? See attorney-reviewed lease forms ↓
Tools for Washington FRBO Landlords
List your Washington rental, screen tenants, get a state-specific lease, and insure it — no property manager required. (Affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you sign up, at no cost to you.)
List Your Rental
Post your rental to Zillow, Apartments.com, Rent.com, and dozens more from a single dashboard. Free for landlords — tenants pay the screening fee.
List for Free →Rent to travel nurses, relocating workers, and remote employees on 1–12 month leases. Higher nightly rates than traditional leases, lower turnover than Airbnb.
List on Furnished Finder →Tenant Screening & Leasing
Share a screening link with applicants and get a full TransUnion credit report, background check, and eviction history in minutes. Applicants pay — landlords screen for free.
Screen for Free →Run credit and background checks, send a state-specific lease for e-signature, and collect rent online with automatic reminders. Built for independent landlords.
Start Screening →Get a full credit report, criminal history, and eviction record. The applicant pays the $40 fee — you get the results instantly. No subscription required.
Run a Check →Legal & Lease Forms
Get a legally compliant lease agreement specific to your state. Also includes move-in inspection checklists, eviction notices, rent increase letters, and more.
Get Your Lease →Insurance
Standard homeowners insurance won't cover a rental. Steadily quotes landlord-specific policies online — covering lost rent, property damage, and liability.
Get a Quote →Moving Help for Tenants
Connect your new tenants with vetted local movers and labor-only help starting around $200. Faster move-ins mean fewer vacant days — share the link at lease signing.
Get Moving Quotes →Frequently Asked Questions — Washington Landlords
Is a written lease required in Washington?
Washington law (RCW § 59.18.260) requires a written rental agreement and a written move-in checklist. These are mandatory — oral-only agreements leave landlords exposed.
What is the security deposit limit in Washington?
The limit is No statutory limit. Deposit agreement must be written and specify deductible conditions. Returned within 30 days.
Is there rent control in Washington?
None (banned by state). Washington state law (RCW § 35.21.830) prohibits local rent control. Seattle has pursued legislation but it has not passed as of 2024.
What disclosures are required in Washington lease agreements?
Required disclosures and clauses include: Move-in checklist (RCW § 59.18.260) — mandatory; Landlord name and address (RCW § 59.18.060); Mold disclosure; Carbon monoxide alarm disclosure; Bed bug disclosure; Lead paint disclosure (pre-1978).
What is the lease term limit in Washington?
No term limits; just cause required for termination under HB 1236. HB 1236 (2021) created just-cause eviction requirements for most tenancies. Fixed-term leases provide clearer rights than month-to-month.
This information is for general guidance only and may not reflect recent legislative changes. Not legal advice.
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