Rental Property Rules in Redmond, WA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Redmond or are thinking about moving there, rental property rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Redmond has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of rental property rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Just Cause Eviction

Redmond follows Washington RCW 59.18.650, which requires landlords to show one of 16 enumerated just causes to end a residential tenancy. No separate city ordinance exists.

Key details: State Law: RCW 59.18.650. Just Causes: 16 enumerated reasons. Owner Move-In Notice: 90 days. Nonpayment Notice: 14 days. Contact: Redmond (425) 556-2900.

Unlawful eviction notices may be challenged in court. Landlords filing improper eviction may be liable for tenant damages, attorney fees, and up to three months rent under RCW 59.18.650.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Redmond actively enforces its just cause eviction requirements.

Rent Control

Rent control is preempted by Washington RCW 35.21.830, so Redmond cannot cap rent increases. State HB 1351 notice rules and RCW 59.18 just-cause protections still apply.

Key details: Rent cap: None (state preemption). Notice: 60 days per HB 1351. Just cause: RCW 59.18.650. Preemption: RCW 35.21.830.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

The rules around rent control in Redmond lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Rental Registration

Redmond has no mandatory rental registration or inspection program. Landlords must hold a city business license under RMC 5.08 and follow Washington RCW 59.18 habitability rules.

Key details: Registration Required: No (business license only). Business License: RMC 5.08. Habitability: RCW 59.18.060. Fire Inspections: 4+ unit buildings. Contact: Redmond (425) 556-2900.

Operating a rental business without a Redmond business license: civil penalty under RMC 5.08. Habitability violations enforced under state law and local building codes.

The rules around rental registration in Redmond lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Redmond gives residents more room on rental property rules. 2 of the 3 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

This guide is based on Redmond's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.