FORMS UPDATE ALERT! 08-25

This update alert includes a high-level summary of changes only. Please refer to the revised forms for full details. Always download the latest version to stay in compliance.

1. As of August 1, 2025, all new leases and lease renewals in the City of Bellingham will need to conform with new law under Ordinance No. 2025-06-010 adding a new section, BMC 6.16 “Prohibited Fees and Deposits in Residential Rentals.”

• A new Bellingham addendum listing all costs designed to be attached as a coversheet to the lease.
• Revisions to the Leasing Requirements by Local Jurisdiction instructions for new Bellingham regulations.

2. While the leases and other forms were reviewed, revised and determined to be in compliance with HB 1073 (WA 2023) when the bill was passed two years ago, we received some member feedback prompting additional revisions.

• The four Residential lease/agreement forms found at rhawa.org/rental-forms-leases-notices were revised to clarify tenant’s responsibility for keeping floors clean: Section 26(C)(1): Residents shall keep carpet and flooring reasonably clean. Stains, odors, tears and damage from accumulation of dirt does not constitute wear from ordinary use.
• Property Condition Checklist instructions were revised to add clarity: No portion of any deposit may be withheld for carpet cleaning unless the landlord documents wear to the carpet that is beyond wear resulting from ordinary use of the premises (RCW 59.18.280(1)(c)(ii). “Ordinary use” includes regular cleaning throughout tenancy; therefore floors should be clean and free from dirt, odors or other damage at move-out.
• Move-Out Instructions form was revised to add clarity: CARPETS / HARDWOOD FLOORS Vacuum/clean thoroughly. Unless otherwise authorized, Resident shall have all carpets and all hardwood, laminate and/or tile floors professionally cleaned and deodorized at Resident’s expense after all furnishings and personal items have been removed from the premises. Persons cleaning carpets and hardwood floors must be licensed, insured and approved by Owner prior to performing the cleaning. Contact Owner before scheduling cleaning. No portion of any deposit may be withheld for carpet cleaning unless the landlord documents wear to the carpet that is beyond wear resulting from ordinary use of the premises (RCW 59.18.280(1)(c)(ii).
  

Please contact Denise Myers at dmyers@RHAwa.org or (260) 905-0614 with any questions or comments. We are always seeking to improve our materials and appreciate your feedback.