Question 1

When does Washington use a 10-day eviction notice?

Accepted Answer

Washington uses the 10-day notice specifically for lease violations and compliance issues under RCW 59.12.030(4). This is a cure-or-quit notice giving tenants 10 days to correct the violation. Importantly, Washington changed its non-payment notice period in 2021 from 3 days to 14 days under RCW 59.18.057. So the 10-day notice in Washington applies only to lease violations other than non-payment. Common 10-day notice situations include unauthorized occupants, pet violations, nuisance behavior, property damage, and other material breaches of the rental agreement.

Question 2

How did the 2021 changes affect Washington eviction notices?

Accepted Answer

Washington's 2021 legislation (ESHB 1236 and related bills) dramatically changed the state's eviction framework. The non-payment notice period was extended from 3 days to 14 days under RCW 59.18.057. The state also enacted just-cause eviction protections, meaning landlords can only evict for specific enumerated reasons listed in RCW 59.18.650. The 10-day notice for lease violations was preserved but now operates within this just-cause framework. Additionally, Washington requires landlords to provide tenants with information about legal aid resources at the time of serving any eviction notice.

Question 3

What must be included in a Washington 10-day violation notice?

Accepted Answer

Washington's 10-day notice for lease violations must include: a description of the specific violation, the section of the lease or rental agreement that was violated, a statement that the tenant has 10 days to cure the violation or vacate, the date the notice is served, and the landlord's name and contact information. Under RCW 59.18.057, landlords must also include information about legal aid resources available to the tenant. Failure to include the legal aid resource information can be a basis for dismissal in some Washington courts.

Question 4

How must the 10-day notice be served in Washington?

Accepted Answer

Under RCW 59.12.040, Washington requires that the notice be served by delivering a copy to the tenant personally, by leaving it with a person of suitable age and discretion at the tenant's residence, or by posting it conspicuously on the premises and mailing a copy via regular and certified mail. Washington courts require strict compliance with service requirements. When using the post-and-mail method, the notice period does not begin until 3 days after the mailing to allow for mail delivery, effectively extending the period to 13 days.

Question 5

Where do I file an eviction case in Washington?

Accepted Answer

Washington eviction cases (Unlawful Detainer actions) are filed in the Superior Court for the county where the rental property is located. In King County (Seattle), file at the King County Superior Court at 516 Third Avenue. In Pierce County (Tacoma), file at the Pierce County Superior Court at 930 Tacoma Avenue South. In Spokane County, file at the Spokane County Superior Court. Filing fees are approximately $53 to $240 depending on the type of action. Washington courts schedule show-cause hearings within 7 to 14 days of filing.

Question 6

What happens if the tenant cures the violation within 10 days?

Accepted Answer

If the tenant cures (corrects) the lease violation within the 10-day notice period, the landlord cannot proceed with the eviction based on that notice. However, under RCW 59.18.180, if the tenant commits the same type of violation within 6 months after receiving a 10-day notice, the landlord can serve a subsequent 10-day notice without offering the right to cure. This repeat-violation provision allows landlords to proceed with an unconditional termination for chronic violators. The landlord must document the original violation and notice to establish the pattern.

Question 7

Does Seattle have additional eviction protections?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Seattle has enacted substantial additional tenant protections that go beyond Washington state law. The Seattle Just Cause Eviction Ordinance (SMC 22.206.160) was one of the first in the state and lists specific just-cause grounds for eviction. Seattle also requires landlords to provide tenants with written notice of their rights under both city and state law. The city offers a Right to Counsel program providing free legal representation to tenants facing eviction. Additionally, Seattle has winter eviction restrictions and relocation assistance requirements for certain types of evictions.

Question 8

How long does the Washington eviction process take?

Accepted Answer

Washington's eviction timeline for lease violation cases typically takes 6 to 10 weeks from initial 10-day notice to physical removal. The breakdown: 10 days for the notice period (13 if served by post-and-mail), then filing the Unlawful Detainer and waiting for the show-cause hearing (7-14 days). If the court rules for the landlord, a writ of restitution is issued. The sheriff executes the writ within 3-7 days. Contested cases can take 2-4 months. King County (Seattle) has the longest scheduling delays. Non-payment cases using the 14-day notice follow a similar timeline but with a longer initial notice period.

Fee / Cost	Typical Amount
Superior Court Filing	$53 - $240
Service of Summons	$40 - $75
Writ of Restitution	$50 - $100
Attorney Fees	$500 - $2,500
Sheriff Lockout	$100 - $250

Free Washington 10-Day Eviction Notice Forms

Washington 10-Day Eviction Notice Overview

When to Use Washington's 10-Day Notice

Do Not Use for Non-Payment

Requirements Under RCW 59.12.030

How to Serve in Washington

Personal Service (10 days)

Suitable Age Service (10 days)

Post and Mail (13 days effective)

File Unlawful Detainer

Washington Eviction Timeline

Washington Court Fees

Sample Washington 10-Day Notice

10-DAY NOTICE TO CURE OR QUIT

STATE OF WASHINGTON

Washington Resources

Frequently Asked Questions