Log in

View Full Version : Roommate rights in Washington


natvfrek1
Oct 20, 2014, 10:08 AM
I rent the upstairs of this guys house. We have no written agreement and my rent is paid on the 1st of each month. Can this person tell me I cant have company over to visit once in awhile in my living space?

smoothy
Oct 20, 2014, 10:10 AM
Sure they can. And since you don't have a written lease he can give you 30 days notice to leave if you tick him off shortly after, (and he really doesn't even NEED a good reason to do it) And evict you at that point if you don't leave.

Who's going to win this? He will.

Point being...tread lightly...you aren't holding ANY of the cards.

joypulv
Oct 20, 2014, 12:41 PM
Try a little reasonable negotiation. Tell him you understand about feet clomping around, about extra use of utilities (even flushing the toilet), about dirt and wear and tear, and the two biggies: noise and parking. Ask if you can have a written agreement for one guest for 24 hours once a month, one extra car, maybe another guest for just the evening once a month. Whatever you think you can compromise on. If your rent is super cheap, either keep quiet and be glad, or offer a pay-per-visit.

ScottGem
Oct 20, 2014, 03:39 PM
Without a written lease, I think you would have the right to have visitors. It's a matter of reasonableness. However, without a written lease, you are a periodic tenant and your tenancy can be terminated at any time with proper notice.

joypulv
Oct 20, 2014, 05:20 PM
In other words, all the rights in the world aren't meaningful, since he can terminate your agreement to live there, and doesn't even need a reason.