Who is responsible between landlord and new tenant for costs to rekey a resident between new tenants in Clark County Washington?

Question

Who is responsible between landlord and new tenant for costs to rekey a resident between new tenants in Clark County Washington?

Anonymous Jul 21, 2013 4 views 2 answers

Landlord told me it would be my out of pocket expense if I wanted to rekey the rental property. He may have been able to safeguard the 'Master key' (more like original keys as they do not indicate 'Do not Duplicate') but not any copies made from the master or copies. Can I deduct the cost to replace these entry locks from my monthly rent? Should I request repair/replacement in writing? What if he refuses the costs? What if his lease agreement says there will be no rent reduction unless in writing and signed by the landlord.

Shawn Alexander · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:44:19+00:00

If you rekey with written permission it would be at your expense. However it is the landlord's duty to provide reasonable adequate locks and provide keys RCW 59.18.060 (6). If you have a reason to believe the locks are not adequate then notify the landlord in writing and he will have time to rekey RCW 59.18.170. good luck

Elizabeth Powell · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:44:19+00:00

It is always the landlord's obligation to provide reasonably secure locks. See RCW 59 18 060. Don't deduct anything from your rent payment unless he signs that he agrees you can do so. That'll get you evicted. But the locks are his issue. Elizabeth Powell

Who is responsible between landlord and new tenant for costs to rekey a resident between new tenants in Clark County Washington?

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