Seattle, WA Building Safety: Pest Control (2026)

Under Seattle's Housing and Building Maintenance Code (SMC 22.206), property owners and landlords must maintain residential rental properties in a condition free of rodent, insect, and pest infestations. Landlords are responsible for pest control in common areas and must address infestations in individual units when caused by building conditions rather than tenant negligence. Seattle encourages integrated pest management (IPM) approaches that minimize pesticide use while effectively managing pests. All commercial pesticide applicators operating in Seattle must hold a valid license from the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) under RCW 17.21. The city's own properties and parks follow IPM principles. Tenants must report pest issues promptly, and landlords must take reasonable action within a reasonable timeframe. For multi-unit buildings, building-wide treatment may be required when infestations affect common areas or spread between units. Bed bug infestations are specifically addressed, with landlords generally responsible for treatment costs unless the tenant demonstrably caused the infestation.