How much a landlord can charge as a late fee in Washington, whether there's a required grace period, and the rule that controls — verified July 2026.
No statewide cap on the amount — statute governs timing only (some cities, e.g. Seattle, cap fees at $10/month). Must be authorized in the written rental agreement; check local ordinances, which can impose a hard dollar cap.
5 days — no fee for rent paid within 5 days of its due date. Read RCW 59.18.170 for the exact conditions.
Use our free late fee calculator to work out the charge from your lease terms, or compare every state in the late fee laws by state directory.
Yes, if the written lease provides for it. Washington limits the amount: No statewide cap on the amount — statute governs timing only (some cities, e.g. Seattle, cap fees at $10/month).. Must be authorized in the written rental agreement; check local ordinances, which can impose a hard dollar cap. Verified July 2026 against RCW 59.18.170 — confirm with the current statute or an attorney.
No statewide cap on the amount — statute governs timing only (some cities, e.g. Seattle, cap fees at $10/month).
5 days — no fee for rent paid within 5 days of its due date.
RCW 59.18.170. The source is published at https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=59.18.170.
No. This is a best-effort summary compiled from a cited source and verified July 2026. Late-fee rules change and some cities add stricter local caps a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.
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