Seattle's Just Cause Eviction Ordinance is one of the strongest tenant protections in the country. It means landlords can't evict you "just because"—they need a specific, legal reason. Here's what you need to know.
What is Just Cause Eviction?
In Seattle, landlords can only evict tenants for specific reasons listed in the law. They cannot:
- Evict you simply because your lease ended
- Evict you to raise rent to market rate (with a new tenant)
- Evict you without cause at any point
What This Means for You
As long as you pay rent on time, follow your lease, and don't cause problems, your landlord cannot legally evict you—even when your lease expires. You have the right to continue living there.
The Legal Reasons for Eviction
Seattle law specifies the only reasons a landlord can evict you. They fall into two categories:
Tenant-Based Reasons (Your Actions)
- Nonpayment of rent
After proper notice and opportunity to pay
- Repeated late rent payments
4 or more times in a 12-month period
- Substantial lease violations
After written notice and opportunity to cure
- Illegal activity
Drug manufacturing, criminal activity on premises
- Nuisance behavior
Substantially interfering with others' peaceful enjoyment
No-Fault Reasons (Not Your Fault)
- Owner move-in
Owner or immediate family wants to live in unit (restrictions apply)
- Sale of unit
Single-family home sold to buyer who will occupy
- Major renovation
Substantial rehabilitation requiring vacancy (tenant has right to return)
- Demolition or condo conversion
Building being demolished or converted (relocation assistance required)
Notice Requirements
Before evicting you, landlords must provide proper written notice:
Relocation Assistance
For no-fault evictions, Seattle requires landlords to pay relocation assistance:
Relocation Assistance Required
If you're evicted for owner move-in, renovation, demolition, or condo conversion, your landlord must pay you relocation assistance.
The amount varies based on your income and unit size. Contact the Renting in Seattle Helpline for current amounts.
What is NOT Legal
Landlords cannot evict you for:
- Complaining about conditions or requesting repairs
- Reporting code violations
- Organizing with other tenants
- Simply because your lease ended
- To rent to someone who will pay more
- Discrimination (race, religion, disability, family status, etc.)
What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice
- Don't panic — You have rights and time
- Read it carefully — What reason does it state? What's the deadline?
- Document everything — Keep copies of all notices and communications
- Contact a tenant hotline — Get free legal advice immediately
- Do NOT just leave — Only a court can legally evict you
Free Help
- Renting in Seattle Helpline: 206-684-5700
- Tenant Union: 206-723-0500
- King County Bar Lawyer Referral: 206-267-7010
The Eviction Court Process
Even with just cause, a landlord cannot force you out without going through court:
- Written notice — Landlord must serve proper notice
- Cure period — You often have time to fix the issue
- Summons & complaint — If unresolved, landlord files in court
- Court hearing — You can present your defense
- Judgment — Only a judge can order eviction
- Writ of restitution — Only sheriff can physically remove you
Important: A landlord changing locks, removing your belongings, or shutting off utilities is illegal. This is called "self-help eviction" and you can sue for damages.
Know Your Rights
Research your building and learn more about Seattle tenant protections.
Read Full Rights Guide