New law: A new law in 2025 changed the time and manner of serving an eviction notice. Failure to comply with the new law will likely result in the dismissal of an eviction by the court.
Residential Comply or Vacate Notices
Landlord-tenant and eviction laws have become complex and nuanced. Landlords must comply with a web of federal, state, and local laws. The interpretation of laws varies from one county to another, and from one judge to another.
A “10-day” notice to comply or vacate should be served only when a landlord demands that the tenant comply with the terms of the lease, or legal obligations, other than payment of rent. Nonpayment of rent or any monetary breach should not be demanded in the notice to comply or vacate.
If a tenant causes threats to health or safety that can be remedied by cleaning or repair, the landlord may be required to give a 30-day notice.
Some leases require cure periods of more than ten days. A notice to comply or vacate notice should give the cure period required by the terms of the lease if greater than the statutory cure period. Lease terms that shorten the cure period are not enforceable. Also, the new law enacted in 2025 may require five additional days be added to the cure period, depending on the method of service. Consult with an attorney if unsure how to proceed.
The notice form posted below is for Washington state generally, and may not comply with local laws.
Washington Notice to Comply or Vacate
Commercial Comply or Vacate Notices.
We post commercial forms, but encourage commercial landlords to allow our office to handle drafting and serving notices in most circumstances.
For commercial properties, see commercial eviction notices.