1. When can a landlord give a 24-Hour Notice to Enter to a tenant?
A residential landlord can give a tenant 24 hours’ notice to enter a dwelling unit in only a few instances. Generally, a 48-hour notice is required. However, a 24-hour notice can be given if a 48-hour notice is impracticable, or the landlord will be showing the unit to prospective or actual purchasers or tenants. RCW 59.18.150(6).
2. What is the format for a 24-Hour Notice to Enter?
A landlord must give a tenant written notice of his intent to enter, and the notice must state the exact time and date of entry. RCW 59.18.150(6). If an exact time is not known, the notice must specify the earliest and latest possible times of entry on that date. RCW 59.18.150(6). The landlord must enter only at reasonable times. RCW 59.18.150(6).
The notice must specify the telephone number to which the tenant may request to reschedule the entry or communicate objection to the entry. RCW 59.18.150(6).
3. Must a tenant allow the landlord to enter?
Under Washington State law, a tenant cannot unreasonably withhold consent to the landlord to enter a dwelling unit to inspect the premises, make necessary or agreed repairs, alterations, or improvements, supply necessary or agreed services, or exhibit the dwelling unit to prospective or actual purchasers, mortgagees, tenants, workers, or contractors. RCW 59.18.150(1).
If the landlord has given at least 24 hours’ notice to enter the unit at a specified time to show the unit to prospective tenants or purchasers, the tenant cannot unreasonably withhold consent to the landlord. RCW 59.18.150(6). However, a landlord cannot unreasonably interfere with a tenant’s enjoyment of the rented dwelling by excessively exhibiting the unit. RCW 59.18.150(6).
4. When is the tenant’s consent not required?
If there is an emergency, notice and consent of the tenant is not required. RCW 59.18.150(5). If a tenant has abandoned the property, consent is not required. RCW 59.18.150(5).
Dimension Law Group has experienced attorneys that know the nuances of landlord/tenant and real estate law and are ready to help landlords with legal issues. If you have any further questions, please contact our office to schedule a phone consultation.
Disclaimer: Washington Landlord Tenant Laws have changed substantially over the last few years. This information may not be up to date. The information on this site is general information and not a substitute for legal advice. Please contact Dimension Law Group to schedule a consultation on the most up to date information.
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