Know the Laws: Washington

UPDATED August 22, 2008

Print this page

• Are there housing laws to help victims of domestic violence?

back to topAre there housing laws to help victims of domestic violence?

Yes. Washington State has housing laws that specifically protect victims of domestic violence. Protections under Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RTLA)* may give you the right to:

• end your lease early, without having to pay a penalty
• avoid eviction, if your landlord is trying to evict you due to the abuse
• avoid discrimination, if a landlord is trying to deny you a place to live because you are a victim of domestic violence.

The King County Office of Civil Rights publishes two information packets that explain your rights under the RTLA and list resources that may be able to help you:

• Domestic Violence and Your Housing Rights: www.metrokc.gov/dias/ocre/DV-Engl.pdf
• Domestic Violence and Your Housing Rights (Spanish Version): http://www.metrokc.gov/dias/ocre/DV-sp.pdf
• Housing Discrimination and Your Civil Rights: A Fair Housing Guide for Renters and Home Buyers: www.metrokc.gov/dias/ocre/RHB-Engl.pdf

If you have trouble viewing any of these files, you may need to install Adobe Reader. Adobe Reader is a computer program that allows you to view PDF files. You can download a free version of Adobe Reader from the Adobe website.

* RCWA 59.18.575

Did you find this information helpful?

back to top