Rental Registration — Washington
State and city registration requirements for landlords and rental properties
State-Level Registration
No statewide registration. Seattle has the Rental Registration and Inspection Ordinance (RRIO). Tacoma and other cities have local programs.
City Programs in Washington
Many cities in Washington have local rental registration, licensing, or inspection programs even when the state has no statewide requirement. Common examples in Washington:
- Seattle — RRIO registration required (~$50/unit every 2 years)
Lead Paint Disclosure (Federal)
Federal law (42 U.S.C. § 4852d) requires landlords to disclose known lead-based paint hazards in housing built before 1978. Required for all states, regardless of local rules.
- Provide the EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet ("Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home")
- Disclose any known lead-based paint or hazards in writing
- Include a lead paint disclosure attachment in the lease
- Allow tenant up to 10 days for lead inspection before signing lease
Governing Statute
Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW §§ 59.18.010 et seq.)
This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.