LegalCals

Washington Eviction Rules

Official notice periods, filing timelines, and legal citations for this state.

Notice Requirements

Nonpayment of Rent
14 days
Lease Violation
10 days (3 days for waste, nuisance, or unlawful activity)
When can the landlord file?
Landlord may file after the notice period expires without cure or payment.
Tenant answer deadline
7
Hearing timeline
Typically 2–4 weeks after filing, depending on court backlog.
Lockout / physical eviction
Only the sheriff may execute the writ of restitution after a court judgment.

Eviction Process Timeline

  1. Notice Period (Nonpayment)

    14 days

  2. Notice Period (Lease Violation)

    10 days (3 days for waste, nuisance, or unlawful activity)

  3. Landlord Can File

    Landlord may file after the notice period expires without cure or payment.

  4. Tenant Answer Deadline

    7

  5. Hearing Timeline

    Typically 2–4 weeks after filing, depending on court backlog.

  6. Lockout / Physical Eviction

    Only the sheriff may execute the writ of restitution after a court judgment.

Legal Citations

  • Wash. Rev. Code § 59.12.030
  • Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.650