Washington state imposes a comprehensive list of mandatory disclosures on residential landlords. Failing to provide these disclosures can result in severe consequences, including the inability to retain security deposits, liability for tenant damages, and potential Attorney General enforcement actions.

1. The Move-In Condition Checklist (Mandatory)

Under RCW 59.18.260, this is Washington's most consequential disclosure requirement. At the start of the tenancy, the landlord must provide the tenant with a detailed written checklist documenting:

• The condition and cleanliness of every room, fixture, and appliance in the unit.
• Any existing damage or wear.

Both the landlord and tenant must review and sign the checklist before it becomes effective. Without a properly executed move-in checklist, the landlord forfeits the right to make any deductions from the security deposit at the end of the tenancy. There are no exceptions.

See our Security DepositsPreview unavailable guide.

2. Federal Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

For properties built before 1978, Washington landlords must comply with the federal Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act:

• Disclose all known lead-based paint and lead hazard information.
• Provide existing test results and reports.
• Give the tenant the EPA pamphlet, "Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home."
• Include the standardized Lead Warning Statement in the lease, signed by both parties.

Violations can trigger EPA fines of up to $19,507 per violation (adjusted for inflation).

3. Mold Disclosure

Washington requires landlords to provide a written disclosure regarding the presence of mold or the conditions that may lead to mold growth in the unit. Under RCW 59.18.060, this includes:

• Notification of any known mold contamination in the unit or building.
• Information about the health risks associated with mold exposure.
• The tenant's responsibility to maintain adequate ventilation and report moisture problems.

4. Fire Safety and Smoke Detection

Landlords must disclose information regarding fire safety:

• Working smoke detectors must be installed and operational in all units (RCW 43.44.110).
• In properties with fossil-fuel burning appliances or attached garages, carbon monoxide detectors must also be present and functional.
• The landlord must inform the tenant of the location and operation of these devices.

5. The Landlord's Identity and Contact Information

Under RCW 59.18.060, the landlord must disclose in writing:

• The name and address of the owner or the person authorized to receive legal process and official notices on the owner's behalf.
• The name and address of any property management company or managing agent authorized to act for the owner.
• The location of the bank and the account number of the trust account where the tenant's security deposit is held.

6. Utilities and Shared Systems

If any utilities are shared between units or are calculated by a ratio (rather than individual meters), the landlord must provide written disclosure of the arrangement and the specific method used to allocate the costs between the tenants.

7. Provision of the Landlord-Tenant Act Summary

Under Washington law, landlords are required to provide tenants with a copy of (or a summary of) the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18). The Attorney General's office publishes a standardized pamphlet that satisfies this requirement.

How Landager Helps

Managing Washington properties requires precision, especially with Seattle's strict security deposit caps and the statewide 30-day return deadline. Landager automates the mandatory move-in checklist process, tracks the 14-day "pay or vacate" notices, and ensures rent increases are delivered with the required 90-day notice. From managing installment payment requests to staying compliant with Just Cause eviction requirements, Landager helps you navigate the complex RCW 59.18 landscape.

Back to Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Laws OverviewPreview unavailable.