What Repairs Are Landlords Responsible for in Washington State?

Owning rental property in Washington comes with clear legal responsibilities—especially when it comes to repairs. State law requires landlords to maintain safe, habitable living conditions, and failing to do so can lead to tenant remedies, legal disputes, or costly fines.

This guide breaks down what repairs landlords are responsible for in Washington, what tenants must handle, and how to stay compliant with the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RLTA).

Quick Answer: What Repairs Are Landlords Responsible For?

In Washington State, landlords are responsible for maintaining rental properties in a safe, sanitary, and habitable condition, including structural elements, essential systems, and code compliance.

This obligation is primarily governed by RCW 59.18.060.

Landlord Repair Responsibilities Under Washington Law

1. Structural Safety & Weatherproofing

Landlords must maintain the basic structure of the property, including:

• Roofs and exterior walls
  
  
• Foundations and floors
  
  
• Windows and doors (including locks)
  
  
• Stairs, railings, and porches
  
  

The unit must be weather-tight and structurally sound at all times.

2. Plumbing & Water Systems

Washington landlords are responsible for ensuring:

• Hot and cold running water
  
  
• Properly functioning plumbing
  
  
• Safe sewage and drainage systems
  
  
• No active leaks or water damage
  
  

Plumbing issues affecting habitability must be repaired promptly.

3. Electrical Systems

Landlords must maintain:

• Safe electrical wiring
  
  
• Working outlets and switches
  
  
• Adequate lighting
  
  
• Code-compliant electrical panels
  
  

Electrical hazards are considered serious health and safety issues under Washington law.

4. Heating & Ventilation

Landlords are required to provide:

• A functioning heating system capable of maintaining safe indoor temperatures
  
  
• Proper ventilation to prevent moisture and mold buildup
  
  

Note: Air conditioning is not required unless provided in the lease—but if it is provided, it must be maintained.

5. Appliances Provided by the Landlord

If the landlord supplies appliances, they are responsible for maintaining them, including:

• Refrigerators
  
  
• Stoves and ovens
  
  
• Dishwashers
  
  
• Garbage disposals
  
  
• Laundry machines (if included in-unit)
  
  

If an appliance breaks due to normal wear and tear, the landlord must repair or replace it.

6. Pest Control (Initial & Ongoing)

Landlords must ensure the unit is free from infestations at move-in, including:

• Rodents
  
  
• Insects
  
  
• Other pests
  
  

Ongoing infestations are typically the landlord’s responsibility unless clearly caused by tenant behavior.

7. Mold & Moisture Issues

Landlords must address mold when it:

• Results from structural issues, leaks, or poor ventilation
  
  
• Poses a health risk
  
  

Tenants are generally responsible for routine cleaning, but landlords must fix the underlying cause.

8. Smoke Detectors & Safety Devices

Washington landlords must provide:

• Working smoke detectors
  
  
• Carbon monoxide detectors (where required)
  
  
• Safe exits and emergency egress
  
  

Landlords are responsible for installation and major repairs.

What Repairs Are Tenants Responsible For?

Tenants are generally responsible for:

• Damage caused by misuse or negligence
  
  
• Routine cleaning
  
  
• Replacing light bulbs or batteries
  
  
• Minor clogs caused by tenant behavior
  
  

Tenants must also notify landlords in writing when repairs are needed.

Repair Timelines in Washington State

Once notified in writing, landlords must make repairs within these timeframes:

Failure to meet these deadlines can allow tenants to pursue legal remedies.

Can Tenants Withhold Rent for Repairs in Washington?

Generally, no—not without following strict legal procedures. Tenants may:

• Use “repair and deduct” in limited circumstances
  
  
• Seek court remedies
  
  
• Terminate the lease if conditions are uninhabitable
  
  

Improper rent withholding can still result in eviction.

Why Staying Repair-Compliant Matters for Washington Landlords

Failing to meet repair obligations can lead to:

• Tenant lawsuits
  
  
• Government code enforcement actions
  
  
• Rent abatement
  
  
• Lease termination
  
  
• Reputational damage
  
  

Proactive maintenance protects both your property and your investment.

How Professional Property Management Helps

Managing repair compliance—especially with Washington’s strict landlord-tenant laws—can be time-consuming and risky. A professional property management company can:

• Handle maintenance requests legally and on time
  
  
• Coordinate licensed vendors
  
  
• Document compliance
  
  
• Reduce liability and tenant disputes
  
  

Take the Stress Out of Repairs & Legal Compliance

Understanding what repairs landlords are responsible for in Washington isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your rental income, avoiding disputes, and maintaining long-term asset value.

If you want help staying compliant, reducing maintenance stress, and protecting your investment, professional property management can make all the difference.

Washington’s landlord-tenant laws are strict, and one missed repair deadline can lead to costly consequences. The Joseph Group helps Washington property owners stay compliant, protect their investment, and handle maintenance issues quickly and professionally.

From emergency repairs to preventative maintenance and vendor coordination, our experienced property management team ensures your rental meets all legal habitability requirements—without the day-to-day headaches.

Contact The Joseph Group today to learn how our full-service property management can protect your property and your peace of mind.