Statewide Eviction Moratorium Extended

I have been notified that the Governor's office will be extending the statewide eviction moratorium through May 4 and possibly longer. I have also learn that the Attorney General is interpreting the Proclamation to prohibit landlords from charging late fees across the entire state. 

We expect any extension or renewal of the current Proclamation to include specific language to this effect.  

The Proclamation put in place on March 18 states:

1. Residential landlords are prohibited from serving a notice to pay or vacate or a notice to terminate tenancy.
2. Residential landlords are prohibited from taking any action to serve or file an unlawful detainer during the moratorium period.
3. Law enforcement may not enforce writs for non-payment of rent.
4. Notices that have been served will be on hold until the moratorium has been lifted.
5. No judicial action may be taken seeking a writ of restitution.
6. Scheduled court dates will be rescheduled after the moratorium period.
7. Supreme Court Order requires civil matters shall be continued until after April 24, 2020.
8. Landlords may serve notices and proceed with unlawful detainers for health and safety reasons.

The statewide Proclamation applies to all rental properties where a local ban has not been enacted. Many local jurisdictions have also enacted eviction moratorium and limitations on charging late fees. A full list of Washington's emergency laws related to eviction can be found here. 

Thank you to Brett Waller from the Washington Multi-family Housing Association.