New Protections for WA State Renters
As things continue to evolve and change with COVID-19, it can be daunting to try to stay abreast of the most current information. Many people, including landlords, may not be aware of the new rules regarding evictions during COVID-19. Here you'll find a few take aways from the recent proclamation by Governor Inslee, made April 16th, related to protections for residential and commercial tenants. See the full overview on Governor Inslee's website.
NOTE: You are still responsible to pay your rent. This moratorium just pauses the court process for evictions. If you can pay your rent, or part of it, do!
What is the eviction moratorium?
If you are unable to pay rent or utilities during the COVID-19 emergency, then between now and June 4th, a landlord MAY NOT:
Evict you if you cannot pay rent or serve you with a notice of unlawful detainer except one that says you are causing an imminent threat to health or safety.
Go to court to get an order against you for not paying the rent or try to force you to move even if you agreed to move out in a stipulation or other agreement.
Force you to move to a smaller rental if you cannot pay the rent.
Raise the rent or increase your deposit between now and June 4th.
Charge late fees for any rent payment that you paid late or could not pay starting February 29, 2020.
Report a debt for rent on your credit.
A landlord MUST
Offer you a reasonable payment plan if you cannot pay the rent. This has to be based upon your own circumstances.
There are many other protections in place, including prohibiting law enforcement to carry out evictions, and the moratorium covers anyone who pays rent to live in any type of place including but not limited to:
You live in a motor home or RV, which you own, and you rent the lot your home sits on.
You live in transitional housing.
You live in a camping area.
You live in an Airbnb.
You have lived in a hotel or motel for more than 30 days.
You are renting a room from a roommate.
You live at a commercial property as a caregiver or security and you pay rent to live there.
You could not live in or move into a place due to COVID-19, i.e. your college closed, or you were laid off from your seasonal job.
You rent a storefront or other commercial space.
For those living in public housing or another type of government housing you have protections under the Federal CARE Act as well.
Is your landlord trying to evict you?
Are you worried you won't be able to pay your rent, but don't know how to communicate what you need to your landlord?
You do NOT have to navigate this alone.
Call Lauren or Maureen at Room One. They will help connect you to rental resources. 509 997 2050
Contact Northwest Justice Project. They offer a variety of legal services for income eligible clients, and the best way to contact them about rental protections is by completing their online application.
Contact the WA Attorney General’s Office. They are accepting complaints related to illegal eviction notices during the eviction moratorium and may be able to assist you.