Planning to rent out a MIL unit and need some guidance

[Corey R.]

Hi all,

We just purchased a home with a MIL unit (located downstairs) in the daylight basement.  There is a main living area above ground (where my wife, son and I will be living).  The MIL has its own separate entrance, however, there is a laundry room located in the MIL as well.  We are planning to utilize the laundry room as a shared laundry.  Luckily the laundry room is in the corner and we are building a wall with a shared hall to the laundry room where both living spaces will be able to access the laundry room.  We will have our own entrance (with lock on door) and the MIL will have it's own separate entrance (with lock on door as well) joined by a hallway connecting both living spaces to the laundry room.  Utilities are all on one meter so we will be including electric, water, cable and internet in the monthly rent.  

Any tips on renting a MIL unit when you are the primary home owner living in the house?  We are located in unincorporated King County (Seattle address, but just outside the city limits) so we aren't strapped by the City of Seattle landlord/tenant laws.  I'm wondering if there are different rental laws for MIL units or is it the same as all rentals?  Is it recommended to do a regular lease agreement?

Thanks,

Corey