How to Show Cause for a Notice of Eviction in Washington
Washington evictions are ruled by Washington's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. One part of this act is eviction reasons. A tenant can only be evicted for a just cause. Evictions for cause are non-payment and lease violation evictions. The only way a landlord does not need a specific eviction reason is if he evicts a tenant at the end of the lease term. The eviction cause must be provided to the tenant on a written notice to quit the property, delivered before filing the eviction suit. If the case goes to court, the landlord is required to prove the eviction cause to the judge.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Make copies of the written notice and the lease agreement. These documents are required to be presented as evidence during any type of eviction proceedings. If the lease is oral or implied, write down the terms.
-
2
Copy the rental ledger, rental invoices, or the other bookkeeping method used for keeping track of rent payments. This piece of evidence proves non-payment of rent, and typically no additional evidence is needed other than a signed affidavit of service. The affidavit proves that the tenant was properly served.
-
-
3
Gather evidence for lease violations. Photos of animals illegally living in the residence, witnesses willing to testify in regards to noise violations, police reports for illegal activities, and repair invoices for damages to the building. A signed affidavit of service is required. Most of the time tenants won't show up to the eviction hearing, but you are still required to have all evidence on hand.
-
4
Prepare for additional hearings if the tenant contests the eviction. Take this time to strengthen your evidence of a just eviction cause. Find additional witnesses or documentation to refute any evidence the tenant presents.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
You might want to use a lawyer if the tenant is actively contesting the eviction. Oral or implied rental agreements can be hard to prove in court, so a lawyer or witness to the agreement may become necessary.
References
- Photo Credit gavel image by Cora Reed from Fotolia.com
