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.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Spokane, WA
Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard art on private property. HOA architectural guidelines under RCW 64.38 apply in m...
Spokane, WA
Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting inflatable holiday decorations on private property. HOA architectural rules under RCW 64.38 apply in master-plann...
Spokane, WA
Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting holiday lights on private residential property. Restrictions come from HOA architectural rules under Washington's...
Spokane, WA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Spokane require building, plumbing, electrical, and/or gas permits under SMC Chapter 17F.040 (which adopts the International Re...
Spokane, WA
Spokane treats outdoor smokers as open-flame cooking devices under International Fire Code 308.1.4 as adopted in SMC Chapter 17F.080. Multifamily balcony 10-...
Spokane, WA
Spokane adopts the International Fire Code under SMC Chapter 17F.080. IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of ...
See how Spokane's repairs & habitability rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.