Just Cause Eviction: Lakewood vs Tacoma
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Lakewood, WA and Tacoma, WA?
Lakewood and Tacoma have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, WA
Pierce County
Washington RCW 59.18.650 requires landlords to have one of 16 enumerated lawful causes to terminate most residential tenancies statewide.
View full Lakewood rules →Tacoma, WA
Pierce County
Tacoma renters are protected by statewide just-cause eviction rules under HB 1236 (2021), codified in RCW 59.18.650, plus enhanced local protections in the Tacoma Renter Protections Ordinance, TMC 1.95.
View full Tacoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | RCW 59.18.650 | - |
| Enumerated causes | 16 lawful reasons | - |
| Nonpayment notice | 14 days | - |
| Tenant remedy | Up to 3 months rent | - |
| State law | - | RCW 59.18.650 |
| Local code | - | TMC 1.95 |
| No-cause | - | Generally barred |
| Effective | - | Statewide 2021 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease in Washington?
Only for one of 16 enumerated just causes under RCW 59.18.650, such as owner move-in, sale, substantial rehabilitation, or lease violation, with proper written notice.
How much notice must a Washington landlord give for nonpayment?
Landlords must provide a 14-day written pay-or-vacate notice before filing eviction for nonpayment under RCW 59.18.057 and RCW 59.18.650.
Tacoma FAQ
Can a landlord refuse to renew?
Not for no reason. Under RCW 59.18.650 and TMC 1.95, the landlord must cite a permitted just-cause ground and follow notice rules, including longer notice periods Tacoma adopted locally.
Are month-to-month tenants covered?
Yes. Statewide just-cause protections apply to most month-to-month residential tenancies, with limited exceptions for owner-occupied small properties carved out in RCW 59.18.
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