Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18 § 59.18.750
Smart access systems -- Alternative keys.
Operative Text
If requested by a tenant, a landlord must offer the tenant an alternative key that does not use biometric identifier information or a software application operated on a tenant's mobile phone or other similar electronic device. Examples of alternative keys include, but are not limited to: (1) A key fob; (2) A key card; (3) A physical key; (4) A method of entry that solely relies upon a keypad or similar device that utilizes the manual entering of a coded sequence of numbers, letters, or both; or (5) Other form of physical access.
Under Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act at Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.750, if a tenant requests it, a landlord is required to provide an alternative method of entry that does not rely on biometric data (such as fingerprints or facial recognition) or a smartphone app. Acceptable alternatives include physical keys, key fobs, key cards, or a keypad-based entry system. The provision ensures tenants are not compelled to use technology that collects biometric information or requires a personal mobile device simply to access their home.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.750, compliant operators of properties with smart access systems maintain the ability to issue non-biometric, non-app-based entry credentials upon tenant request. This typically means having a supply of physical keys, key fobs, key cards, or a functioning keypad option available as alternatives to any primary smart-lock system. Operators generally document tenant requests and the alternative provided to demonstrate compliance with this section of the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.750 gives tenants the right to request an alternative entry method if their building uses a smart access system that relies on biometric identifiers or a mobile phone app. Acceptable alternatives under this provision include physical keys, key fobs, key cards, and keypad entry systems. Tenants who believe this right has been denied may consider contacting a local tenant-rights organization, raising the issue with a housing authority, or consulting an attorney familiar with Washington landlord-tenant law.
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.
Effective Timeline
References Out
No outbound references recorded yet for this provision.
References In
No inbound references recorded yet for this provision.