LANDLORD & TENANT LAW
Clear Legal Guidance When Property Matters Become Complicated
Landlord and tenant relationships can involve complicated legal requirements and significant responsibilities. Richmond Hill, PLLC provides guidance to help landlords and tenants understand their rights, responsibilities, and available options.
When You Need to Know What Comes Next
Whether you’re a property owner dealing with a difficult tenancy or a tenant facing a dispute, understanding your legal rights and responsibilities is an important first step.
We help clients navigate landlord-tenant matters with practical guidance focused on understanding the circumstances and identifying the appropriate path forward.
Guidance for Landlords & Tenants
Lease & Rental Matters
Guidance regarding leases, rental agreements, and related legal questions.
Disputes & Conflicts
Help understanding your options when disagreements arise between landlords and tenants.
Eviction-Related Matters
Legal guidance regarding the rights, responsibilities, and procedures involved in tenancy disputes.
Understand Your Rights Before Making Your Next Move.
Landlord-tenant matters can move quickly, and taking the wrong step can create additional complications.
We help you understand the legal issues involved so you can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A Straightforward Process
01 — CONSULTATION
We’ll learn about your situation, answer your initial questions, and discuss your potential options.
02 — PLANNING
Together, we’ll determine the appropriate path forward and prepare for the next steps.
03 — GUIDANCE
You’ll have legal guidance throughout the process so you understand what’s happening and what comes next.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Landlord & Tenant Questions, Answered.
What is the legal process and timeline for evicting a tenant for non-payment of rent or lease violations?
Landlords must follow strict court procedures rather than engaging in “self-help” evictions (such as changing locks or cutting off utilities):
- Notice: Serve a formal written notice providing the legally required period to cure or vacate. Specific wording and timeframes are mandated by state law.
- Summons & Complaint: File an unlawful detainer suit if the tenant fails to comply.
- Court Hearing: Present evidence to a judge to secure a judgment for possession.
- Writ of Restitution: The clerk’s office issue a writ for the local sheriff to physically remove the tenant if necessary.
Washington law in most cases requires word-for-word compliance on the landlord’s part through every stage of this process. An experienced attorney can save you months of time in reclaiming your property as a tiny error can send you back to the start.
What are the legal rules regarding handling, holding, and returning security deposits?
A security deposit can only be required for a tenant with a written lease, and who has a written and signed checklist of condition of the unit upon entry. Keeping the deposit at the end of the lease requires strict compliance with rules of notice and documentation of damages.
How can a landlord legally enter a tenant-occupied unit for repairs or inspections?
Landlords must respect the tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment and privacy. Landlords generally must:
- Provide advance written notice of 48 hours.
- Enter during standard business hours.
- State a valid reason for entry.
Advance notice is waived only during active emergencies, such as major plumbing leaks or fires.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Let’s Talk About Your Options.
Schedule a consultation with Richmond Hill, PLLC to discuss your circumstances and learn more about how we may be able to help.