Washington Mandatory Rental Disclosures

1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

If this property was built before 1978, the following applies:

• Month2Month will disclose any known lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the property prior to lease execution.
• Month2Month will provide all available records and reports pertaining to lead-based paint in the property.
• The tenant will receive a copy of the EPA-approved pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home."

For more information: National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or www.epa.gov/lead.

2. Security Deposit

Deposit Limits

Washington law does not impose a statutory cap on the amount of a security deposit. However, the deposit amount and the terms for its return must be stated in the rental agreement.

Deposit Handling Requirements

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.270, the landlord must:

• Place all deposits in a trust account at a bank or licensed escrow agent, or provide a surety bond
• Provide the tenant with a receipt for the deposit that includes the name and address of the financial institution where the deposit is held
• Hold the deposit for the tenant during the tenancy

Permitted Uses

Your security deposit may be used for: unpaid rent; repair of damages to the premises caused by the tenant beyond ordinary wear and tear; cleaning costs to restore the unit to the same level of cleanliness as at move-in; and other defaults under the rental agreement.

Return of Deposit

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.280, within 30 days after the tenancy has terminated and the tenant has vacated, the landlord must:

• Return the full deposit with a statement showing any deductions, or
• Provide the tenant with a full and specific statement of the basis for retaining any of the deposit, together with payment of any refund due

The statement must be delivered by first-class mail or personally to the tenant's last known address. If the landlord complies with this provision within 21 days, the landlord is entitled to retain the deposit for any proper deductions. If the landlord fails to provide the statement within 30 days, the landlord forfeits all right to retain the deposit.

Nonrefundable Fees

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.285, any nonrefundable fees or deposits must be specifically identified as nonrefundable in the rental agreement. No fee or deposit may be designated as nonrefundable unless the rental agreement clearly states that the fee or deposit is not refundable.

Disputes

If you dispute any deduction, contact Month2Month in writing within 7 days. If the dispute cannot be resolved, you may file a claim in small claims court. If a court finds that Month2Month acted in bad faith in retaining your security deposit, Month2Month may be liable for up to two times the deposit amount plus attorney's fees.

3. Move-In Checklist

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.260, at the commencement of the tenancy, Month2Month will provide you with a comprehensive written move-in checklist that includes:

• A room-by-room description of the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, windows, doors, fixtures, and appliances
• The cleanliness condition of each area
• A detailed inventory of all furniture, appliances, and household items provided (for furnished rentals)
• Documentation of any pre-existing damage, stains, scratches, or conditions
• Photographs documenting the condition of the premises

Both the landlord and tenant must sign the checklist. You will receive a copy of the signed checklist for your records. If you identify any conditions not noted on the checklist, you should note them immediately and notify Month2Month in writing.

4. Landlord Identity and Address Disclosure

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.060, the landlord must disclose to the tenant in writing at or before the commencement of the tenancy:

• The name and address of the person who is the landlord or the landlord's agent for purposes of service of notices and process
• The name and address of the person who is responsible for the management of the premises
• The name and address of an owner or other person authorized to receive service of process and to receive and give receipts for notices and demands

If any of the above information changes during the tenancy, the landlord must provide written notice of the change within a reasonable time.

Your lease agreement contains the specific owner information, property manager contact information, emergency maintenance contact, and the person authorized to receive service of process for your property. Month2Month serves as the property manager for all properties in our portfolio.

General Contact: [email protected]

5. Mold Disclosure

Washington law requires landlords to maintain rental properties in a condition that does not endanger the health or safety of tenants, which includes addressing mold and moisture conditions. Mold can cause health problems, especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems.

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.060, landlords must disclose any known mold conditions in the rental unit. The landlord must also inform the tenant of any known moisture problems or water infiltration issues that could contribute to mold growth.

Month2Month is not aware of any mold in the rental property that poses a health threat at the time of your lease. If mold is discovered during your tenancy, Month2Month will take appropriate remediation action in accordance with Washington law.

Tenant Responsibilities to Prevent Mold

1. Ventilate your home: Open windows regularly, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and ensure air circulation. The Pacific Northwest climate makes ventilation particularly important.
2. Control moisture: Wipe up spills and leaks immediately, do not let water accumulate, and report any leaks or water damage to Month2Month immediately.
3. Use heating and air conditioning: Maintain reasonable temperatures and use climate control systems to reduce humidity.
4. Clean regularly: Regular cleaning prevents mold from establishing itself, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and areas near windows.
5. Report problems immediately: If you see mold, smell musty odors, or notice water damage, report it to Month2Month right away.

Under RCW §59.18.090, the landlord is required to maintain the premises in a habitable condition. If mold develops due to landlord negligence (such as failure to repair leaks or provide adequate ventilation), the landlord is responsible for remediation.

6. Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

All Month2Month rental properties are equipped with operable smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in compliance with Washington law. Smoke detectors are installed in each sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the dwelling. Carbon monoxide detectors are installed outside each sleeping area and on every level with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage.

Smoke Alarm Requirements

Pursuant to RCW §43.44.110, the landlord must ensure that smoke detection devices are installed and maintained in proper operating condition. Smoke alarms must be installed on every level of the dwelling, in each sleeping room, and outside each sleeping area.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements

Pursuant to RCW §19.27.530, carbon monoxide alarms must be installed in dwelling units that contain a fuel-burning appliance or that have an attached garage. CO alarms must be installed outside each sleeping area and on every level of the dwelling.

Tenant Responsibilities

• Do not disable, disconnect, cover, or tamper with any smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector. This is a violation of Washington law.
• Test all devices monthly by pressing the test button.
• Report immediately if any device is chirping, not functioning, or missing.
• Do not remove batteries.
• If you hear the carbon monoxide alarm sound continuously, evacuate immediately and call 911.

Month2Month is responsible for ensuring all devices are operable at the beginning of each tenancy and for maintaining them throughout, including replacing batteries and units as needed.

7. Bed Bug Disclosure

Washington law requires landlords to maintain rental properties in habitable condition, which includes addressing pest infestations such as bed bugs. Month2Month provides this disclosure to inform tenants about bed bug identification, prevention, and reporting.

Identification

Bed bugs have six legs and flat bodies about 1/4 inch long, ranging from red-brown to copper colored. They do not fly but move quickly over surfaces. They hide in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, furniture crevices, baseboards, and wall cracks. They feed on human blood at night.

Signs of Infestation

Look for small blood stains on sheets, dark spots (excrement) on mattresses or walls, shed skins, and a sweet musty odor. Bites may appear as red, itchy welts in a line or cluster, though some people do not react.

Prevention

• Inspect your mattress, box spring, and bed frame regularly.
• When traveling, inspect hotel rooms and luggage before returning home.
• Do not bring used mattresses or upholstered furniture into the home without thorough inspection.
• Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places.

Month2Month has no knowledge of any bed bug infestation in your specific rental unit. If Month2Month becomes aware of bed bug infestation during your tenancy, you will be notified immediately. Month2Month will arrange and pay for professional pest control treatment when the infestation is not caused by the tenant.

8. Fire Safety

Month2Month is committed to fire safety in all rental properties. The following fire safety information is provided to help keep you safe during your tenancy.

Fire Safety Features

All Month2Month rental properties are equipped with the following fire safety features as required by Washington law and the Washington State Fire Code:

• Working smoke alarms on every level, in each sleeping room, and outside each sleeping area
• Carbon monoxide detectors where required (see Section 6)
• Fire extinguisher (where provided, check location at move-in)
• Adequate exits and egress windows in compliance with building code

Tenant Fire Safety Responsibilities

• Do not block exits, stairways, or egress windows with furniture or belongings.
• Do not use or store flammable liquids (gasoline, kerosene, propane) inside the dwelling unit or in enclosed common areas.
• Do not use portable space heaters near curtains, bedding, furniture, or other combustible materials. Keep at least three feet of clearance.
• Do not leave cooking unattended on the stove or in the oven.
• Do not use charcoal or gas grills inside the dwelling or on covered balconies (check local fire code for outdoor grilling restrictions).
• Know your evacuation route and the location of the nearest fire exit.
• Never disable or tamper with smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors.

In Case of Fire

1. Get out immediately. Do not stop to collect belongings.
2. Close doors behind you to slow the spread of fire and smoke.
3. Call 911 from outside the building.
4. Do not re-enter the building until the fire department says it is safe.
5. Contact Month2Month as soon as possible after ensuring your safety.

9. Just Cause Eviction Protections (SB 5160)

Pursuant to SB 5160 (effective May 2021) and subsequent amendments, Washington State has statewide just cause eviction protections. A landlord may not terminate a tenancy, refuse to renew a tenancy, or increase rent in a manner that effectively terminates a tenancy without one of the following just causes:

For-Cause Terminations:

• Nonpayment of rent (with required notice and opportunity to cure)
• Material breach of a substantial obligation of the rental agreement (with 10-day notice to comply or vacate)
• Waste, nuisance, or unlawful activity that substantially affects the health or safety of other tenants
• Gang-related activity on the premises
• Criminal activity on the premises
• Failure to comply with material terms of the rental agreement after written notice
• The tenant has engaged in drug-related activity on the premises

Landlord-Cause (No-Fault) Terminations:

• Owner or owner's immediate family member intends to personally occupy the unit (90 days' notice required)
• The landlord intends to sell the property and has a bona fide offer (90 days' notice required)
• The landlord intends to substantially rehabilitate the property (120 days' notice required)
• The landlord intends to demolish the property (120 days' notice required)
• The landlord intends to convert the property to a nonresidential use (120 days' notice required)
• The property has been condemned or is being withdrawn from the rental market

Relocation Assistance: When a landlord terminates a tenancy for a no-fault just cause (owner move-in, sale, demolition, rehabilitation, or conversion), the landlord must pay the tenant relocation assistance equal to one month's rent. In some cities (e.g., Seattle, Tacoma), additional local relocation assistance may apply.

Right to Return: If a tenant is displaced due to substantial rehabilitation, the tenant has a right of first offer to return to the unit at the same rent once the rehabilitation is complete.

10. Rent Increase Protections

State Rent Increase Notice Requirements

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.140, a landlord must provide written notice of any rent increase at least 60 days before the increase takes effect for month-to-month tenancies. For longer fixed-term leases, rent cannot be increased during the term unless the lease expressly permits it.

Statewide Rent Stabilization

Washington has enacted rent stabilization measures limiting annual rent increases. Landlords must comply with any applicable caps on the amount of rent increase permitted within a 12-month period. The specific cap and any exemptions are set by current legislation. Check with the Washington State Attorney General's office or a legal aid organization for the current rent increase cap in effect.

Local Rent Protections

Some Washington cities have additional rent increase protections. For example:

• Seattle: Additional notice requirements and relocation assistance for significant rent increases
• Tacoma: Additional tenant protections and relocation assistance requirements
• Burien, Federal Way, Kenmore, and other cities: May have local ordinances providing additional protections

If your property is located in a city with additional local regulations, the applicable requirements will be disclosed in your lease agreement.

11. Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Protections

Right to Terminate Lease Early

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.575, a tenant who is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment, or stalking may terminate a rental agreement by providing the landlord with written notice at any time, along with one of the following forms of documentation:

• A valid protection order, no-contact order, restraining order, or other court order
• A copy of a written report by a law enforcement officer stating that the tenant or a member of the tenant's household is a victim
• A record of a conviction of the perpetrator for an act of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment, or stalking against the tenant or a household member

The tenant must provide at least 14 days' notice and is responsible for rent only through the end of the notice period or the date the tenant vacates, whichever comes first. The tenant is not liable for future rent, lease break fees, or other early termination penalties.

Right to Request Lock Changes

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.585, a tenant who is a victim may request that the landlord change the locks to the dwelling unit. The landlord must change the locks within 24 hours of receiving the written request accompanied by qualifying documentation. The landlord may charge the tenant for the reasonable cost of the lock change.

Protection from Eviction and Discrimination

Pursuant to RCW §59.18.580, a landlord may not:

• Terminate or refuse to renew a tenancy based on the tenant's status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment, or stalking
• Refuse to rent to a prospective tenant based on domestic violence victim status
• Penalize a tenant for calling the police or emergency services in connection with domestic violence

Confidentiality

Month2Month will maintain the confidentiality of any information provided by a tenant who is a victim. Documentation provided will be kept in a secure file and will not be disclosed to third parties except as required by law.

Resources

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224)
• Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-562-6025
• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
• Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence: www.wscadv.org
• Northwest Justice Project: www.nwjustice.org

12. Military Installation Disclosure

Pursuant to Washington law, if a property is located near a military installation, the landlord must disclose this fact. Military installations may generate noise from aircraft, training exercises, or other military operations that may affect the livability of the property.

If your property is located near a military installation (such as Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Naval Station Everett, Fairchild Air Force Base, or other military facilities), this information will be disclosed in your lease agreement or property-specific addendum.

If you encounter any suspicious objects that may be military ordnance, do not touch, move, or disturb them. Contact local authorities immediately.

13. Flooding History Disclosure

Washington law requires landlords to disclose known material facts about the property, including known flooding history. If your property is located in a flood hazard area or has experienced flooding, this information will be disclosed in your lease agreement.

If your property is located in a special flood hazard area as designated by FEMA, or has experienced flooding within the past five years, this information will be disclosed in your lease agreement or property-specific addendum.

For detailed flood hazard information, visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at https://msc.fema.gov/portal.

14. Furnished Property Disclosure

All Month2Month rental properties are provided fully furnished. All furniture, appliances, fixtures, and household items in the property are the property of Month2Month or the property owner and are provided for your use during the term of your lease.

Your Responsibilities

• Maintain all furnished items in the same condition as received, allowing for ordinary wear and tear.
• Use all items for their intended purpose only.
• Do not remove any furnished items from the property.
• Report any damage to furnished items within 48 hours of discovery.
• Do not repair or replace items yourself without prior written approval.

Damage vs. Normal Wear and Tear

Replacement Responsibility

• Tenant-caused damage: Tenant is responsible for the cost of repair or replacement (at depreciated value) of items damaged beyond normal wear and tear. Costs may be deducted from the security deposit.
• Missing items: Tenant is responsible for full replacement cost.
• Normal wear items: Month2Month replaces items that reach end-of-life through normal use.
• Appliance malfunction: If an appliance fails due to normal use or age, Month2Month is responsible for repair or replacement.

Cleaning Standards

The property must be returned in the same level of cleanliness as at move-in. Maintain the kitchen, bathrooms, floors, furniture, and linens in clean condition throughout your tenancy. If professional cleaning is required beyond what is attributable to normal wear and tear, cleaning costs may be deducted from the security deposit.

Inventory

A detailed furniture and household inventory checklist will be provided at move-in as part of the mandatory move-in checklist (see Section 3). Month2Month will document the condition of all items through photography. You will receive a copy of the move-in condition report.

15. Tenant Rights and Responsibilities Under RCW Chapter 59.18

Your Rights

1. Habitable Housing: Your rental unit must meet basic health and safety standards, including weatherproofing, plumbing, heating, electricity, hot and cold running water, and freedom from vermin and infestations. (RCW §59.18.060)
2. Privacy: Your landlord must give at least two days' notice before entering your unit (except in emergencies) and may only enter during reasonable hours for specific lawful purposes. (RCW §59.18.150)
3. Return of Security Deposit: Your deposit must be returned within 30 days after move-out, with an itemized statement of any deductions. (RCW §59.18.280)
4. Freedom from Discrimination: You cannot be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, familial status, disability, veteran or military status, immigration or citizenship status, or use of a service or assistance animal. (RCW §49.60)
5. Freedom from Retaliation: Your landlord cannot retaliate against you for exercising your legal rights, including complaining about habitability issues, organizing a tenant association, or filing a complaint with a government agency. (RCW §59.18.240, §59.18.250)
6. Just Cause Eviction Protection: Your landlord cannot terminate your tenancy without a legally recognized just cause. (RCW §59.18.650)
7. Repairs and Maintenance: You have the right to request repairs for health and safety issues, and your landlord must respond within a reasonable time. If the landlord fails to make essential repairs after written notice, you may have remedies including repair and deduct, rent escrow, or lease termination. (RCW §59.18.070, §59.18.110)
8. Protection from Unlawful Eviction: Your landlord must follow proper legal procedures and cannot use "self-help" eviction methods such as changing locks, shutting off utilities, or removing your belongings. (RCW §59.18.290)
9. Domestic Violence Protections: Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment, or stalking have the right to terminate a lease early and request lock changes. (RCW §59.18.575)
10. Right to Organize: You have the right to organize or participate in a tenant association without retaliation.

Your Responsibilities

1. Pay rent in full and on time.
2. Keep the unit clean and sanitary.
3. Avoid damaging the property beyond normal wear and tear.
4. Promptly report maintenance issues, leaks, mold, pests, or safety hazards.
5. Allow reasonable access for repairs and inspections with proper notice.
6. Comply with all lease terms including occupancy limits, pet policies, and use restrictions.
7. Avoid creating nuisances or disturbing other residents.
8. Properly dispose of garbage and recycling.
9. Use all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems in a reasonable manner.
10. Provide proper notice before moving out and return the property in clean condition.

Resources

• Washington State Attorney General — Tenant Rights: www.atg.wa.gov/landlord-tenant
• Northwest Justice Project: www.nwjustice.org
• Washington LawHelp: www.washingtonlawhelp.org
• Tenants Union of Washington State: www.tenantsunion.org
• Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-562-6025
• Fair Housing Center of Washington: www.fhcwashington.org