If the repair is yours to pay
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Repair-request & landlord/tenant forms (LawDepot)Templates for a notice to repair, security-deposit demand, and more.
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Default rule and exceptions
Under RCW 59.18.060, the landlord must provide a reasonable program for the control of infestation by insects, rodents, and other pests at the initiation of the tenancy and, except in a single-family residence, control infestation during the tenancy unless the tenant caused it. Under RCW 59.18.130, the tenant assumes all costs of extermination and fumigation for infestation caused by the tenant.
| Party | What they are responsible for |
|---|---|
| Landlord | Provide a reasonable program for the control of infestation by insects, rodents, and other pests at the initiation of the tenancy and, except in the case of a single-family residence, control infestation during tenancy |
| Tenant | Assume all costs of extermination and fumigation for infestation caused by the tenant |
| Exceptions | Single-family residence: the landlord duty to control infestation during tenancy does not apply.; Infestation caused by the tenant. |
What the source says
Last verified against the primary source on Oct 17, 2026.
Provide a reasonable program for the control of infestation by insects, rodents, and other pests at the initiation of the tenancy and, except in the case of a single-family residence, control infestation during tenancy except where such infestation is caused by the tenant
assume all costs of extermination and fumigation for infestation caused by the tenant
City rules rest on state law. Read Washington's sidewalk statute, quoted verbatim, or see all 50 states in one table.
Common questions
Who pays for rental pests: landlord extermination duty in Statewide, WA?
The landlord. Provide a reasonable program for the control of infestation by insects, rodents, and other pests at the initiation of the tenancy and, except in the case of a single-family residence, control infestation during tenancy
Are there exceptions in Statewide, WA?
Single-family residence: the landlord duty to control infestation during tenancy does not apply.; Infestation caused by the tenant.
What is this based on for Statewide, WA?
This verdict is sourced to RCW 59.18.060 Landlord - Duties and 2 sources in total, each independently re-checked before publication.
Sources
- RCW 59.18.060 Landlord - Dutiesstatute · verified-primary · accessed 2026-10-17
- RCW 59.18.130 Duties of tenantstatute · verified-primary · accessed 2026-10-17
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