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Renting your unoccupied Washington State residence or investment property is a great way to bring in extra income. But if you’re a beginner landlord, there are some things you should take into consideration to ensure you’re following laws regarding tenant rights.
If you’re ever overwhelmed by the amount of work you’ve taken on, Zenith Properties is here for you. Our property management services offer a variety of options to take the stress out of renting.
In the meantime, we’ve compiled a few tips to ensure healthy long-term relationships for every tenant that comes through your property.
What You Should Understand About Tenant Rights
Being informed about tenant rights isn’t just smart, it’s a crucial step in renting out a property. Overlooking key details can lead to legal trouble, financial loss, and strained relationships.
Here’s what every new landlord should understand:
- Define “rent” clearly in the lease: Clearly spell out what’s included in the term “rent.” This can include late fees, utility bills, legal fees, or maintenance costs. If these aren’t specifically labeled as “rent” in your lease, you may not be able to claim them in an eviction case. Ambiguity in this area can lead to financial disputes or tenant claims.
- Choose the right rental agreement type: Understand the differences between month-to-month agreements, fixed-term leases, and one-way leases. Tenants have the right to receive copies of signed documents, request proof of receipt, and ask for confirmation upon delivery. Keeping everything in writing helps both parties avoid misunderstandings.
- Document property condition before and after tenancy: Take clear, dated photos of the property before tenants move in and after they move out. Additionally, maintain written documentation of the property’s condition. Tenants in Washington State can request a move-out inspection, so be prepared to walk through the unit with them and sign a checklist if asked.
- Know your local and state laws: Landlord-tenant laws vary by location. Familiarize yourself with Washington State-specific rules covering deposits, entry notices, rent increases, and fair housing. Being informed helps you avoid costly legal violations and stay compliant with local ordinances.
- Consult a legal professional when needed: If you’re ever unsure how to handle a legal issue, don’t go it alone. A qualified attorney can help you interpret lease terms, respond to tenant disputes, and avoid long-term consequences from simple mistakes.
- Screen tenants carefully: Thorough tenant screening helps you avoid problem renters. Watch for red flags such as inconsistent employment history, poor references, or unverifiable information. A bad tenant can lead to property damage, lost rent, and legal headaches.
Signs to Watch Out For in a Tenant
Choosing the right tenant is the first step to protect your rental property and avoid costly issues down the road. During the application process, watch for these common warning signs:
1. Are they avoiding a credit check? A credit check is a standard part of tenant screening, but you can’t run one without their written permission. If an applicant avoids or refuses to consent, it could indicate financial trouble, a history of late payments, or even a prior eviction.
Be upfront and explain that you won’t rent to them unless they consent to a credit check.
2. Is their credit score low? Does it show bankruptcy? A poor credit score or a past bankruptcy can signal ongoing financial instability. If someone has struggled to manage money before, they may have difficulty keeping up with rent.
This is likely a sign that they will not always be able to pay rent on time.
3. Have they been evicted? Previous evictions, especially for nonpayment, are a serious red flag. It often means the tenant had options to leave but chose not to, forcing the landlord into legal action.
Don’t accept unnecessary risks, look for applicants with a clean rental record.
4. Have they moved yearly? While not everyone stays in one place for years, frequent moves (especially annual ones) can suggest instability or dissatisfaction with previous housing.
Contact former landlords to confirm how long the applicant stayed. A consistent pattern of short-term leases may be a dealbreaker.
5. What about the criminal background check? In some states, you’re able to deny any candidate that has gone to jail. However, some such as California, you cannot discriminate against certain nonviolent crime charges.
Be sure to learn the laws for your state so you don’t cause more problems for yourself. But, in most states, if the conviction was a sex crime or drug dealing, you are likely able to reject their application.
6. Are there lies on the application? Always verify the information provided, such as employment, income, rental history, and references. Any dishonesty, especially about income or previous rentals, is a bad sign for an applicant.
Even small lies should be taken seriously, as they often point to larger issues.
7. Do they seem desperate? Evasive? Applicants in difficult situations may come across as anxious or rushed. While some may genuinely need a fresh start, evasiveness or inconsistent stories can be a warning sign.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s okay to move on.
Set Yourself Up for Long-Term Rental Success
Being a landlord in Washington State can have many benefits, but it comes with serious responsibilities. By understanding tenant rights, following local laws, and establishing clear, fair practices from the beginning, you’ll set the foundation for a more successful rental experience.
With the right approach, you can turn your rental property into a reliable source of income, while providing a safe, well-managed home for your tenants. Contact us today for more information on our property management services.
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