Quick Answer
Under RCW 59.18.057, a Washington landlord who alleges the tenant has not paid past-due rent, utilities or other recurring charges gives a 14-day notice in substantially the statutory form. The notice itemizes rent, utilities and other recurring charges by month with a total, names the owner or landlord, is signed and dated, and says where and to whom to send payment. The 14 days run from service. Statute text last checked October 22, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Statutory form. Substantially the form in the statute.
- Itemize by month. Rent, utilities and recurring charges, with a total.
- Payment method language. Per the lease or by nonelectronic means such as a cashier’s check or money order.
- Resources listed. Attorney General site, legal help, mediation and interpreter information.
- Service matters. Service follows RCW 59.12.030(3).
1. What Must Be in the Notice
The notice states that you allege the tenant is not following the lease by not paying past-due rent, utilities or other recurring or periodic charges. Each amount is itemized by category and tied to specific months, with a total. It names the owner or landlord, carries a signature and date, and says where and to whom to send payment.
2. Payment Language
The notice explains that payment follows the lease terms or is made by nonelectronic means such as a cashier’s check, money order or other certified funds, and that any payment is applied first to the total amount due. It says that failing to comply within 14 days may lead to a court proceeding that could result in eviction.
3. Resources the Notice Lists
The statutory form directs tenants to the state Attorney General’s website, to legal help including the right to counsel and the Eviction Defense Screening Line, to 2-1-1, to the Northwest Justice Project CLEAR hotline and to washingtonlawhelp.org. It also mentions free or low-cost mediation and interpreter services at court.
4. Service
The 14 days run from the date the notice is served. The section does not describe how to serve; it refers to RCW 59.12.030(3). Record the date, method and person served.
5. Tenant Options
The tenant may pay the full amount within 14 days using a permitted method, move out within 14 days, or seek help. If neither happens, a court proceeding may follow.
6. A Checklist
- Use the statutory form language.
- Itemize each month and category and total the amount.
- Sign, date and state where to send payment.
- Serve under RCW 59.12.030(3) and record it.
- Calendar day 14 and note the result.
7. What This Guide Does Not Cover
This guide covers the notice. It does not cover the court case, service methods in detail, or Seattle’s local requirements. It states the statute and does not predict how a court will rule.
8. Questions Owners Ask
Can I include late fees? The form refers to rent, utilities and other recurring charges listed in the lease; read the statute before listing anything else.
Can the tenant pay by card? The notice explains payment by lease terms or nonelectronic means.
When do the 14 days start? From the date of service.