Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Washington

How do I get my property back?

My roommate gave me 24 hrs notice to get out of his house. He stated that I could leave some boxes and my cat while I stayed in a hotel and got an apartment, and pick them up later. After I got an apartment, i called and he stated I now have to pay him for something he alleged I broke months earlier before he'll let me set foot in the house for my items. What do I do to get my things back?


Asked on 5/16/07, 9:48 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Elizabeth Powell ELizabeth Powell PS Inc

Re: How do I get my property back?

Your roommate has no ability to throw you out on 24 hours notice. You need to find a lawyer and file a replevin action to get your property back, and a wrongful eviction complaint. That is also possibly an outrage claim.

This is NOT self help law, you need somebody who has done this before.

Distress for rent (holding onto somebody's property because you think they owe you money/rent) was abolished in WA in 1973.

You have to give him notice of your demand for return of your property.

Now if you tell me your roommate has a restraining order keeping you away my answer is going to change. But, you didn't say that.

Hope this helps. Elizabeth Powell

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Answered on 5/17/07, 12:09 am


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