Washington State (Tacoma) Fair Housing owner/occupied triplex

[Justin Davis]

I have an issue with a tenant. She was there when I bought the place. Currently on a month to month lease. She has 5 kids and some lowlife boyfriend that's not on the lease. I believe there was some domestic issues with them in the past, but that's before I bought the place. It's a 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath, with a basement/garage. About 1650 sq ft. She pays $1200 a month. Market is $1700 in my region. The other day she complained about her refrigerator not working, so immediately went to my used appliance guy and picked up an apartment sized refrigerator that I said is temporary until I can get a larger one. She said it was too small and said she was going to buy a new one and take it out of the rent. I said "no way". There has not been a solution to that issue. About a day later, her lit cigarette caught her mesh screen on her back porch on fire. It caused about $50 in damage. During that same time, I had a plumbing issue that took a few days to get resolved. The plumber came on Friday, couldn't fix the clog and had to wait until yesterday to fix it. It's finally fixed, but during the weekend, she continued to yell and complain about the clog, even though she knew the plumber was coming back on Monday. Anyway, I want to kick her out because I have someone that wants to move in and will pay $1700. He doesn't have kids and is the type that plays a lot of video games. She constantly screams at her kids and her kids are noisy. I live right next door. What's your advice on how to get her out in Washington state by 9/1. I have a $1300 deposit of hers. Thanks in advance. Am I up **** Creek without a paddle ? Or am I exempt?

[Brandon Gallimore]

@Jacob Villalobos That seems to be the best bet. Especially on a month to month. I would definitely deduct the fridge and the repair of the fire from her deposit. It’s the rough part of landlording, but at least you have an investment opportunity. Good thing she isn’t in a year or so lease.