Washington Criminal & credit history rules

Can a landlord deny a tenant for criminal or credit history in Washington?

Washington requires landlords to give written (or posted) notice before screening, stating what information will be accessed, what criteria may cause denial, consumer-report rights, and whether a reusable tenant screening report is accepted. Adverse-action notices must state reasons and may list criminal-record information among the grounds. Website listings must say whether reusable reports are accepted. Statute text: "Prior to obtaining any information about a prospective tenant, the prospective landlord shall first notify the prospective tenant in writing, or by posting, of the following" (RCW 59.18.257(1)(a)).

Verified Source: RCW 59.18.257 · last checked 2026-10-16