RCW 59.18.060 requires Washington landlords to keep rentals 'fit for human habitation' — structurally sound, weathertight, with working plumbing, heat, hot water, electrical systems, pest control, and reasonable locks. After written notice, RCW 59.18.070 sets repair deadlines: 24 hours for lost heat, water, or electricity, 72 hours for major fixtures, 10 days otherwise.
RCW 59.18.060 provides the landlord 'will at all times during the tenancy keep the premises fit for human habitation,' and must maintain structural components, weatherproofing, plumbing, heating, electrical and hot-water systems, control pests, and provide reasonable locks and keys. After the tenant gives written notice of a defect, RCW 59.18.070 requires repairs in 'not more than twenty-four hours, where the defective condition deprives the tenant of hot or cold water, heat, or electricity, or is imminently hazardous to life'; 'not more than seventy-two hours' for loss of a refrigerator, range and oven, or a major plumbing fixture; and 'not more than ten days in all other cases.' Failure can trigger repair-and-deduct, rent abatement, or termination.
Under RCW 59.18.070 and related sections, a tenant whose landlord misses the deadline may pursue repair-and-deduct, hire repairs and deduct up to the statutory limits, terminate the tenancy, or sue for damages, diminished rental value, and in some cases costs and attorney fees.
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See how Bellevue's repairs & habitability rules stack up against other locations.
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