AN ACT Relating to modifying requirements for service of unlawful detainer notices and other notices served in the same manner;
Summary
HB 2664 revises Washington’s unlawful detainer notice service rules, which govern how landlords and others must deliver eviction-related notices and certain other notices served in the same manner. The bill expands and clarifies acceptable service methods, including personal delivery, leaving the notice with a suitable person at the premises and mailing a copy, certified mail, and, in some cases, posting the notice conspicuously on the premises and mailing it. It also specifies how service is treated for tenants, unlawful occupants, hotel or lodging-house guests in certain circumstances, and corporations.
The bill further states when service by mail is deemed complete and adds a five-day waiting period before an action may begin when notice is served by mail. For termination notices, it requires the notice to state the date by which the person must vacate or comply, if applicable. Overall, the measure updates procedural requirements in the landlord-tenant context and amends the relevant sections of the Revised Code of Washington governing unlawful detainer and related notice service.
Impact
HB 2664 amends Washington landlord-tenant law, specifically the statutes governing service of unlawful detainer notices and related notices served in the same manner. It affects landlords, tenants, unlawful occupants, corporations, and others involved in possession disputes by clarifying permissible service methods, timing rules, and proof-of-service requirements. The bill is procedural rather than substantive, but it can affect how eviction cases are initiated and whether notice service is legally sufficient under RCW chapter 59.12.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have received broad, bipartisan support and little visible opposition. It passed the House committee, House floor, Senate committee, and Senate floor unanimously, with no recorded nay votes in the provided history. That voting pattern suggests the measure was viewed as a technical or clarifying update to notice procedures rather than a controversial policy change.
Contention
No major points of contention are reflected in the provided materials, and there are no committee transcripts indicating debate. The main policy issue inherent in the bill is the balance between making notice service more flexible for landlords and preserving adequate notice protections for tenants and other occupants. The unanimous votes suggest any concerns about due process, mailing delays, or service by posting were either resolved or not significant enough to generate recorded opposition.