unfortunately, i have learned the hard way with two terribly crummy landlords. my first experience cost me $300, because i was young, and i didn't know my rights (and i definitely did not know how to stand up for myself).
i've learned, however, and my current crummy landlord situation is proving to be more successful.
here's what has helped me:
-i would print this and keep it with you, especially if you are moving annually or are a student. it's a copy of the Seattle Landlord- Tenant Laws.
-here is a link to the King County Law library and more resources.
- solid ground is a grass roots organization with an office that deals with housing/tenant/landlord issues. speaking with their staff has been hugely helpful. while they are not lawyers, they can diagnose your situation using the landlord-tenant laws and give you advice on how to proceed.
- here you'll find a king county publication on how to go to small claims court
my long story short: our landlord deducted a plumbing bill from our deposit, which was for tree roots in the mainline of the housing complex. i spoke with solid ground, they said it was illegal, and they advised me to write a letter of dispute within 7 days of the returned deposit check, and if that doesn't work go to small claims court. i sent the letter last week (use certified mail!) and i am hoping for the best!
i really hope this proves helpful. i have realized that it is really hard to deal with the legal system, particularly when you are figuring out how it works. it is turning out to be a BIG process, but, alas, it is necessary to keep things fair. it's unfortunate that there are people out there who will take advantage of others; i feel like college students get the brunt of it where housing is concerned.
good luck!
