When leasing a rental property in Washington State, landlords are legally required to provide certain written disclosures to tenants — either in the lease agreement or as separate attachments.
Failure to include even one required disclosure could lead to legal disputes, fines, or claims of improper leasing procedures.
At VPMG Property Management, we ensure every lease package includes all compliance documents. Below is a breakdown of the must-have disclosures for Washington landlords.
✅ Mandatory Disclosures for Washington Rental Properties
| Disclosure Type | Required For | What Must Be Disclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Owner / Agent Contact Info | All rentals | Name & address of landlord or property manager for notices and legal communication |
| Lead-Based Paint Disclosure | Built before 1978 | Federal law requires disclosure form + EPA pamphlet (“Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home”) |
| Mold Information Disclosure (WAC 246-360-150) | All rentals | Tenants must receive mold prevention and health risk information at lease signing |
| Security Deposit Receipt & Terms | If collecting a deposit | Written move-in condition checklist must be signed by tenant, plus rules for deposit deductions |
| Fire Safety & Evacuation Plan (RCW 59.18.060) | Multi-family properties (e.g., apartments) | Include fire safety system details (alarms, sprinklers) and evacuation instructions |
| Flood Risk Disclosure (RCW 64.06.020, effective 2024) | Rentals in flood-prone areas | Must disclose if the property is in a FEMA-designated flood zone |
| Utilities Billing Disclosure | If shared meters or landlord bills tenant | Explain how charges are calculated and who is responsible for each utility |
| Smoking Policy Disclosure | All rentals | State where smoking is or isn’t allowed (required per RCW 70.160) |
⚠️ Optional but Highly Recommended Washington Lease Addendums
While not always required, these disclosures can protect you from disputes:
-
Pest Control / Bed Bug Disclosure
-
Crime-Free or Drug-Free Housing Addendum
-
Renters Insurance Requirement Notice
-
Parking & Vehicle Policy
-
HOA Rules (if applicable)
Where Should Disclosures Be Included?
✔ Within the lease agreement, as clearly labeled sections
✔ As separate addendum documents, signed by all tenants
✔ Provided before move-in, not after
For added protection, ask tenants to initial next to each disclosure clause.
Final Thought: Missing a Disclosure Can Cost You
Tenants can challenge a security deposit, withhold rent, or even terminate a lease if you fail to include required disclosures.
At VPMG Property Management, our leases are fully Washington-compliant and attorney-reviewed — so landlords never have to worry about missing paperwork.
Want a ready-to-use Washington disclosure packet?
Contact VPMG today — we’ll provide a full compliance bundle for your rental.