WomensLaw is not just for women. We serve and support all survivors, no matter their sex or gender.

Important: Even if courts are closed, you can still file for a protection order and other emergency relief. See our FAQ on Courts and COVID-19.

Legal Information: Washington

Washington Housing Laws

Laws current as of
December 3, 2020

Below is information about housing laws that help victims of domestic violence in Washington.

Are 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)1 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; and 
  • 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:

Lawhelp.org also has information from the Northwest Justice Project about the law here.  

1 R.C.W. § 59.18.575

Back to top
Legal Information

© 2008–2020 WomensLaw.org is a project of the National Network to End Domestic Violence, Inc. All rights reserved. This website is funded in part through a grant from the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. Neither the U.S. Department of Justice nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse, this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). NNEDV is a 501©(3) non-profit organization; EIN 52-1973408.