top of page

Under TMC 1.95 Landlords Can’t Deny Tenancy for Criminal History in Certain Cases

  • If you were arrested but not convicted.

  • If you took part in or finished a program where judgment was deferred or diverted.

  • If you had a conviction that was dismissed by a judge, expunged, declared void, or invalidated.

  • If you were convicted of a crime that's no longer against the law in Washington State.

  • If you were convicted or had a judgment issued through the youth justice system.

  • If you were convicted of a misdemeanor over 3 years ago from when you applied, except if the court specifically banned you from the property you're applying for.

  • If you were convicted of a felony over 7 years ago from when you applied, except if the court specifically banned you from the property you're applying for.


How to take action

  1. Send your landlord a letter/email informing them of the violation 

  2. Document all interactions and communications with your landlord.

  3. If your landlord refuses to comply with the law, you can file a Civil Complaint (see template) for the violation. 

  4. Contact an attorney for legal advice and/or representation 

  5. Go to all of your hearings!


Template Downloads

bottom of page