What to do if my landlord keeps appearing at the house without letting me know he is coming?

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What to do if my landlord keeps appearing at the house without letting me know he is coming?

Can I refuse to let him in? And what can I do to make him stop? I have asked him in writing to please notify me before coming up and given him 2 ways to do it – email and by mail. What options do I have if he refuses to notify me?

Asked on June 23, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Washington

Answers:

S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

In WA, a landlord is required to give 48 hours written notice before entering your rental.  Entry has to occur at a reasonable time.  If the landlord's entry into your rental is to show it to prospective tenants or prospective purchasers, only 24 hours notice is required.  No notice is required for the landlord to enter your rental in an emergency.

If the landlord refuses to provide you with the requisite notice prior to entering your rental, you can sue the landlord for breach of the covenant of quiet enjoyment.  The covenant of quiet enjoyment is in every lease and means that the tenant cannot be disturbed in his/her use and enjoyment of the premises.  If the landlord does not comply with the notice requirements, you can refuse entry.  If that occurs,  you should document it in writing.


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