State notice rules
How do Washington landlords serve a 14-day pay or vacate notice by mail?
Updated · By the Landlord Notice Mail team
Serve the 14-day pay or vacate notice in person, or by leaving it with a person of suitable age at the residence and mailing a copy, or by posting it on the premises and mailing a copy. When service is made by mail, RCW 59.12.040 allows five additional days before you can start an action based on the notice.
| Notice | Period | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Pay rent or vacate | 14 days after service | RCW 59.12.030(3) |
| Comply with lease or vacate | 10 days after service | RCW 59.12.030(4) |
| Mailed service | +5 days before filing | RCW 59.12.040 |
| Entry | 2 days written; 1 day to show the unit | RCW 59.18.150 |
| Deposit statement | 30 days; personal delivery or first-class mail | RCW 59.18.280 |
Required form
Washington requires the 14-day notice to follow a form set in the landlord-tenant act, with specific tenant resource information. Use the current statutory form; a homemade notice missing required language risks dismissal.
Quick answers
Can I mail the 14-day notice only?
No. Mail is paired with substitute service or posting under RCW 59.12.040.
How long do I wait before filing if I mailed it?
The 14 days plus 5 additional days for mailed service.
How do I send the deposit statement?
Within 30 days, personally or by first-class mail to the last known address.
What to do next
Mail the follow-up copy by Certified Mail ($14.99) to prove the mailing date, or use the $29/month Landlord plan for monthly notices.
Send the mailed copySources
- Revised Code of Washington 59.12.030
- Revised Code of Washington 59.12.040
- Revised Code of Washington 59.18.150
- Revised Code of Washington 59.18.280
Checked: . General information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change: confirm current values at the official links above.