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How can a tenant in armed forces terminate tenancy upon reassignment or deployment orders?

How can a tenant in armed forces terminate tenancy upon reassignment or deployment orders?

Full question:

I live in a rented apartment in Washington. I have been working with the armed forces for 10 years. I am subject to reassignment every six to ten months. How can I terminate my tenancy upon reassignment or deployment orders?

Category: Landlord Tenant
Subcategory: Lease Termination
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Washington

Answer:

In Washington, the armed forces personnel’s may terminate their tenancy for a specified time on receiving reassignment or deployment orders by providing a notice of reassignment or deployment order to the landlord not later than seven days after the receipt.

This is provided in the Annotated Revised Code of Washington §58.18.220. It reads:

“(1) In all cases where premises are rented for a specified time, by express or implied contract, the tenancy shall be deemed terminated at the end of such specified time.
(2) Any tenant who is a member of the armed forces, including the national guard and armed forces reserves, or that tenant's spouse or dependent, may terminate a tenancy for a specified time if the tenant receives reassignment or deployment orders. The tenant shall provide notice of the reassignment or deployment order to the landlord no later than seven days after receipt.”

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

How do apartment complexes verify rental history?

Apartment complexes typically verify rental history by contacting previous landlords or property management companies. They may also check rental payment records and look for any eviction history. This process helps them assess your reliability as a tenant. If you are a member of the armed forces, you may have additional protections under the law regarding rental history verification. Always ensure to provide accurate information to facilitate the verification process.

What is the military tenant clause?

The military tenant clause is a provision in rental agreements that allows service members to terminate their lease without penalty upon receiving deployment or reassignment orders. This clause is designed to protect military personnel from being financially burdened by leases when they are called to serve. In Washington, this right is supported by the Annotated Revised Code of Washington § 58.18.220, which outlines the process for termination.

Can a landlord refuse to rent to military?

Generally, landlords cannot refuse to rent to military personnel solely based on their military status. Discrimination against service members is prohibited under federal law, including the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). However, landlords can refuse applicants based on standard criteria such as credit history, income, or rental history. It's important to ensure that any rental application process complies with fair housing laws.

How do apartments verify military orders?

Apartments typically verify military orders by requesting a copy of the orders from the applicant. This documentation serves as proof of the service member's status and the need for potential lease termination or special accommodations. Landlords may have specific procedures in place to handle such requests, ensuring compliance with laws like the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).

Do apartment complexes check military orders?

Yes, apartment complexes often check military orders when applicants are service members. This verification helps landlords confirm the legitimacy of the applicant's military status and any associated rights, such as lease termination under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). Providing valid military orders is essential for accessing these protections.

Do you have to pay to break a lease with military orders?

In Washington, if you are a service member and receive deployment or reassignment orders, you can terminate your lease without penalty by notifying your landlord within seven days of receiving the orders. This means you typically do not have to pay additional fees to break the lease, as long as you follow the proper procedures outlined in the Annotated Revised Code of Washington § 58.18.220.