Washington Rent withholding / escrow

Can a tenant withhold rent for repairs in Washington?

If the landlord fails to fix serious conditions that endanger health or safety (such as no water or heat, plumbing hazards, or fire risks), the tenant gives written notice. If not fixed in a reasonable time, the tenant can ask the local government to inspect and certify the condition, then pay rent into an escrow account instead of to the landlord.

Verified Source: RCW 59.18.115 · last checked 2026-10-15