Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Washington

Re: Property Damage

This is a perfect example of liability being on the landlord, and yes, chances are you can get reimbursement for the personal property you lost AND you can get relocation funds pursuant to RCW 59 18 085.

Read the statute. Follow the directions carefully.

Write to your landlord to give them notice (formally) of the problem and to demand that you receive relocation funds.

Relocation is $2000 or three months rent whichever is more, and you are due it, so long as the problem was not of your making, within 7 days.

The RLTA is at Title 59, Chapter 18.

You have to give notice in writing. Ask your landlord who is his insurance carrier. If they are totally unhelpful, get local counsel. This area of the law provides that the losing party has to pay the prevailing party's attorney fees and costs of suit, which will make your issue more attractive to an attorney.

Doesn't mean they will work for free, but it'll help.

Powell

Hope this helps