Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18 § 59.18.010
Short title.
Operative Text
RCW 59.18.010 through 59.18.420 and 59.18.900 shall be known and may be cited as the "Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 1973", and shall constitute a new chapter in Title 59 RCW.
Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.010 et seq. establishes the formal name and scope of Washington State's primary residential rental housing law. The sections spanning RCW 59.18.010 through 59.18.420 and 59.18.900 are collectively designated the 'Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 1973' and form a distinct chapter within Title 59 of the Revised Code of Washington. This naming provision anchors all subsequent rights, duties, and remedies found throughout the Act.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Washington should be aware that their rental activities are governed by the framework established under Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.010 et seq., formally known as the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 1973. Compliant operators generally familiarize themselves with the full span of the Act—from § 59.18.010 through § 59.18.420 and § 59.18.900—since obligations related to habitability, notice, deposits, and other core duties all derive from this single statutory chapter. Referencing the Act by its official title when reviewing lease terms, notices, or local ordinances helps ensure the correct body of law is being consulted.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Washington renters have their core housing protections rooted in the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 1973, codified at Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.010 et seq. This Act, covering sections through § 59.18.420 and § 59.18.900, is the foundational law that defines the rights and responsibilities governing most residential rental relationships in the state. Tenants who believe their rights under this Act have been affected can consult local tenant-rights organizations or legal aid services for guidance on how the Act's provisions may apply to their situation.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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