The Latest “Bridge” to Nowhere: WA Law Extends Protections – Creates No New Ones

By: Whitny L. Norton and Tyler B. O’Brien

On September 24th, 2020, Governor Inslee signed a proclamation extending Washington’s eviction moratorium “Bridge.” At this point, someone should probably write an article assessing the effectiveness of eviction moratoriums as a long-term policy from an economic and political standpoint. We will leave that conversation to the pundits and stick to what we know, landlord-tenant law.

I.              How Does the Second Bridge Affect Me as a Landlord or Property Manager?

The latest “Bridge” is just an extension of the previous one.

·      The rules regarding defaulted rent which accrued between February 29, 2020, and July 31, 2021, have not changed.

o   Damage deposits cannot be applied to past due rent for this period.

·      The rules regarding defaulted rent which accrued between August 1, 2021, and September 30, 2021, have been extended to October 31, 2021. In summary, landlords cannot serve an unlawful detainer summons or a notice to vacate if a tenant:

o   has made full payment;

o   made a partial payment pursuant to an agreement with the landlord;

o   has a pending application for rental assistance; or

o   resides in a jurisdiction where the rental assistance program is anticipating receipt of additional rental resources but has not yet started their program or the rental assistance program is not yet accepting new applications. 

Under the “Bridge,” late fees cannot be assessed through October; however, that was already prohibited by SB 5160. Late fees cannot be applied until at least December 30, 2021 (subject to change).

II.            What Can I do To Evict Tenants Who Refuse to Pay Their Rent?

Sending notices for evictions, rent increases, and lease renewals have become risky endeavors. Taking the wrong action can, in some cases, force a landlord to pay a tenant up to 2.5x damages, court costs, and attorney’s fees.

We can help. Piskel Yahne Kovarik, PLLC (“PYK”) is an experienced team of legal professionals offering, among other things, comprehensive legal representation to owners, property managers, and businesses.

PYK carefully tracks the frequent changes in landlord tenant law, so we can better serve our clients.

Contact our legal team today to see how we can assist you in protecting your investment.