What fees must be disclosed before signing a lease?
This rental guidance was reviewed by the Tenants & Landlords Intelligence Team, specializing in lease agreements, notices, rent disputes, deposits, evictions, and tenant-landlord operational procedures.
Rental Fees Disclosure Requirements for Tenants in Washington State
When renting a home or apartment in Washington, tenants have important rights regarding transparency of fees and costs associated with their lease. Washington law prioritizes clear communication between landlords and tenants, ensuring that all charges are disclosed upfront before a lease is signed. This helps renters understand their financial obligations and avoid surprises.
Below is a detailed overview of the fees landlords must disclose to tenants before entering into a rental agreement in Washington State.Fees That Must Be Disclosed Before Signing a Lease in Washington
1. Security Deposits
- Amount: Landlords must disclose the exact amount of the security deposit before the lease is signed. Washington law does not limit the maximum amount a landlord may charge as a security deposit.
- Purpose and Conditions: The landlord should explain conditions under which the deposit may be withheld after move-out, such as damages or unpaid rent.
- Separate Disclosure: It is recommended that the security deposit and any nonrefundable fees are clearly identified and itemized.
2. Application Fees
- Disclosure Required: Landlords may charge a nonrefundable application screening fee to cover the cost of credit or background checks.
- Amount and Use: The exact application fee and how it will be used must be disclosed upfront.
- Notice of Approval or Denial: If the tenant is denied based on screening results, the landlord must notify the applicant promptly.
3. Rent Amount and Payment Details
- Monthly Rent: The precise rental amount must be stated in the lease.
- Due Date and Late Fees: Landlords must disclose the rent due date, any allowable grace periods, and the amount of any late fees.
- Acceptable Payment Methods: Disclosure of how rent payments can be made (e.g., check, electronic payment) is recommended for clarity.
4. Non-Refundable Fees
- Cleaning or Move-In Fees: Any non-refundable fees, such as move-in or cleaning fees, should be identified before signing.
- Pet Fees: If pets are allowed, landlords must disclose pet deposits or monthly pet rent fees separately from the security deposit.
5. Additional Fees or Charges
- Utility Fees: If utilities such as water, sewer, or trash are included, or if tenants must pay separately, these arrangements should be clearly stated.
- Parking Fees: If the tenant must pay a separate fee for parking, this should be disclosed prior to signing.
- Amenity Fees: Any extra fees for amenities like storage, laundry facilities, or fitness centers should be noted in the lease.
Legal Basis and Best Practices
Washington’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW Chapter 59.18) governs rental agreements and tenant protections, including clear disclosure of fees related to tenancy. While the law emphasizes the landlord’s duty to provide written rental agreements, the clarity and completeness of fee disclosure help prevent disputes.
Written Lease Requirements
- Landlords in Washington are encouraged to provide a written rental agreement that itemizes all applicable fees and charges.
- Any fees not disclosed prior to signing may not be enforceable against the tenant.
Security Deposit Handling
- Under Washington law, landlords must provide a written notice listing all conditions for retaining part or all of the security deposit after the tenancy ends.
- The deposit must be returned within 21 days of tenant move-out, along with an itemized list of deductions.
Practical Tips for Tenants Before Signing a Lease in Washington
To protect your interests and ensure transparency:
- Request a complete written list of all fees, deposits, and charges associated with the rental.
- Review the lease carefully to confirm all fees match the disclosures you received.
- Ask questions about any ambiguous fees or terms.
- Obtain receipts for any payments made at or prior to signing (e.g., application fee, security deposit).
- Confirm pet policies and fees if applicable.
- Understand your obligations regarding utilities and other recurring charges.
Summary
In Washington State, landlords must disclose all fees and charges associated with renting a property before a lease is signed. These disclosures include:
- Security deposit amount and conditions
- Application fees
- Monthly rent and late fee policies
- Non-refundable move-in or cleaning fees
- Pet fees
- Any additional charges, such as utilities or parking fees
By ensuring transparency about rental fees, tenants in Washington can enter lease agreements with confidence, understanding exactly what financial commitments they are making.