Washington notice to vacate

Frequently asked questions

How much notice must a tenant give to end a month-to-month lease in Washington?

At least 20 days before the end of any monthly/periodic period. Give it in writing and keep proof of delivery. Verified July 2026 against RCW 59.18.200 (tenant); RCW 59.18.650 (landlord just cause).

How much notice must a landlord give to end a month-to-month tenancy in Washington?

Just cause required — a landlord generally CANNOT end a month-to-month without a statutory cause; notice varies by cause (commonly 60 days; 90 days for owner move-in/sale). The 2021 just-cause law eliminated no-cause 20-day terminations by landlords; wrongful eviction exposes the landlord to 3x monthly rent plus fees.

Can a landlord end a month-to-month tenancy without cause in Washington?

Not freely — Washington restricts no-cause terminations. Just cause required — a landlord generally CANNOT end a month-to-month without a statutory cause; notice varies by cause (commonly 60 days; 90 days for owner move-in/sale) Confirm with RCW 59.18.200 (tenant); RCW 59.18.650 (landlord just cause) and any local ordinance.

What statute governs notice to vacate in Washington?

RCW 59.18.200 (tenant); RCW 59.18.650 (landlord just cause). The source text is at https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=59.18.650.

Is this legal advice?

No. This is a best-effort summary compiled from a cited source and verified July 2026. Notice rules change and many cities add stricter just-cause or longer-notice ordinances a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.