A Washington Standard Lease Agreement is a formal document prepared by a landlord to authorize a tenant to occupy a property for a fixed term.
It includes essential details such as the property’s address, specifics of the security deposit, and contact information for both the tenant and the landlord. Upon approval, the landlord completes the agreement with the mutually agreed terms.
Considerations on Lease Length
- Leases can generally be of any duration as long as the term is specific and agreed upon in writing by both the landlord and tenant.
- Unless otherwise agreed, rental agreements are typically for a term of one year. Any rental agreement, regardless of its duration, is automatically renewed for the term of the original rental agreement unless a different term is specified (RCW 59.18.210).
Security Deposit
- Maximum Amount ($): No state-imposed limit (RCW 59.18.260).
- Returning to Tenant: Within 30 days (RCW 59.18.280).
Rent Grace Period
There is a 5-day grace period before charging a late fee (RCW 59.18.170).
Landlord Resources
- Landlord-Tenant Laws – Chapter 59.18 RCW (Residential Landlord-Tenant Act).
- Handbook – Tenant’s Rights in Washington State (PDF).
