Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Washington

Re: Landlord is cop spying and harrassing

You can call the cops on him for peeping and lurking in the bushes. You can move.

You can give him a 20-day notice and go get another place to live. If you have a lease, you can ask to be released from your obligations if he is unhappy with you as a tenant.

You can get a restraining order. If you explain to a District Court Judge what you've explained here about his hanging around and how uncomfortable it makes you, chances are you'll get that protection order. This one is called an Anti-Harassment Order, and it's free. You just have to politely insist that the clerk get you a judge, fill out the anti-harassment Motion and Declaration (on line at www.courts.wa.gov) and the judge will take it from there.

In any event,each and every time your landlord shows up unannounced you have to write him a letter (and save a copy)It reads like this: Dear LL, you came over today unannounced and I wouldn't let you in and here's why: Washington Law requires that you provide me 48 hours notice of your intent to enter for inspection or repair purposes, and 24 hours notice to show the apartment to new prospective tenants. Washington law provides that you can be fined $100.00 each time you violate this provision of the RLTA. So far, this has happened X (#) of times. Your anticipated cooperation and courtesy is greatly appreciated. Sincerely yours, I.M. Your Tenant

What's he's breached is called the covenant of quiet enjoyment, which is law-talk for being able to shut the world out of your premises and expecting it to stay out.

YOUR obligation is primarily to pay the rent, tell him about problems in writing, and not run drugs out of your apartment.

I will warn you that if he has the slightest suspicion you are involved in any kind of drug activity - even people who come to visit you without an invitation - you will likely find yourself facing an eviction based on mere hints, not proof of any kind.

This is civil law, and the measure of proof is "preponderance" not "Beyond a doubt", so it's easily proven, and your facts as presented are not compelling proof that you have never been involved with drug activities ever in your life. Tread carefully. ALWAYS PAY YOUR RENT. ON TIME.

If you get served a 3-day notice either contact legal aid in your county or email me.