Washington Holdover tenants
What happens if a tenant stays after the lease ends in Washington?
It is unlawful for a tenant to hold over or exclude the landlord after the rental agreement ends, except under a valid court order. The landlord may recover damages and, in court, costs and reasonable attorney fees.
Verified Source: RCW 59.18.290(2) · last checked 2026-10-22
Same topic in neighboring states
All Washington landlord-tenant law · Washington landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Deposit return deadline · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone)
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