Tenant lawyer threatening on bais of Consumer Protection Act” WA

[A G.]

Hello - I got into a situation where my tenants, who moved in the beginning of Nov from out of state (did the walkthru using FaceTime), start complaining that they didn’t like the house. The house got few issues as well (appliances stopped working), which I replaced in 48hrs. They keep complaining that they want move out for which I also offered options and mutual resolutions.

today all of a sudden I was surprised by a letter from their attorney claiming that I falsely advertised my home and used “bait and switch” tactics to deceive them. They are asking me to return all the rent/security deposit and asking for additional attorney fee + some other reimbursement for groceries/vaccum etc.

I am very certain that I didn’t do anything wrong and everything was handled as per landlord/tenant act. I am also not sure if consumer protection act is even applicable as in WA, issues covered by tenant/landlord are not addressed by Consumer protection act.

I am looking for an attorney referral in snohomish county area to help me with this. I was about to travel internationally and I feel the tenants intentionally timed it to clash with my trip making me more willing to settle with them.

Would appreciate some guidance on this matter.

[Greg M.]

99.9% chance the lawyer is either from some free tenants organization or a friend. Regardless, the lawyer will ask for a bunch of stuff just to scare you or hope you're dumb enough to pay it. You're free to reply that you agree to break the lease as long as the tenants agree to send you 2 pounds of olives every 3rd Wednesday of the month for the next 16 months. See, you can ask for stupid s*** too! 

I'd just respond back: I will terminate the lease with no early lease break penalty effective (end of current month) provided tenants have completely vacated property by then, left it in like condition as received, and returned all keys. Security deposit will be returned based on condition of the property and full rent received through the date of lease termination in accordance with the lease and local laws. Please confirm within 48 hours from receipt otherwise please enjoy your home for the next 11 months.