How to Evict a Squatter in Washington State

Dealing with squatters can be a challenging and frustrating situation for property owners in Washington State. A squatter is an individual who occupies a property without legal permission, often refusing to leave even after being asked to do so. If you find yourself in this predicament, it is important to understand the eviction process and the steps you can take to regain control of your property. This article will guide you through the process of evicting a squatter in Washington State.

1. Determine if the individual is a squatter: Before taking any legal action, it is crucial to establish whether the person is indeed a squatter. A squatter is someone who does not have a legal right to occupy the property, such as a tenant who has not paid rent or a person who has unlawfully entered the premises.

2. File a police report: If you have confirmed that someone is squatting on your property, file a police report. This will serve as an official record of the situation and can be useful in the eviction process.

3. Provide written notice: In Washington State, you must first provide a written notice to the squatter, informing them of their unlawful occupation and requesting that they vacate the property within a specified timeframe. The notice should clearly state the reason for eviction and be delivered in a way that can be proven, such as through certified mail or posting it conspicuously on the property.

4. File an unlawful detainer lawsuit: If the squatter fails to vacate the property within the specified timeframe, you will need to file an unlawful detainer lawsuit in the appropriate Washington State court. This is a legal action to regain possession of the property.

5. Attend the court hearing: After filing the unlawful detainer lawsuit, a court hearing will be scheduled. Both parties will have the opportunity to present their case, and the judge will make a decision. If the judge rules in your favor, you will be granted a writ of restitution, allowing you to regain possession of the property.

6. Enforce the court order: Once you have obtained a writ of restitution, you can request assistance from the county sheriff to physically remove the squatter from the property. It is important to let law enforcement handle this step to avoid any potential legal ramifications.

7. Secure the property: After successfully evicting the squatter, it is crucial to secure the property to prevent any further unauthorized occupation. Change the locks, repair any damage caused by the squatter, and take any necessary steps to ensure the property is ready for legal occupancy.

FAQs:

1. Can I physically remove the squatter without going through the eviction process?
No, it is illegal to forcibly remove a squatter or engage in self-help eviction. You must follow the legal eviction process to regain control of your property.

2. How long does the eviction process take in Washington State?
The length of the eviction process can vary, but typically it takes around 30-60 days from the start of the process to regaining possession of the property.

3. What if the squatter claims to have rights to the property?
If the squatter claims to have a legal right to occupy the property, you should consult an attorney to review the situation and determine the appropriate course of action.

4. Can I change the locks while the squatter is still inside?
No, changing the locks while the squatter is inside is considered a form of self-help eviction and is illegal. You must go through the legal eviction process.

5. Can I sue the squatter for damages?
Yes, you can sue the squatter for any damages they have caused to the property during their unlawful occupation.

6. What if the squatter leaves belongings behind after eviction?
Washington State law requires you to store the squatter’s belongings for a specified period of time. You must provide notice to the squatter and allow them to retrieve their belongings within a reasonable timeframe.

7. Can I recoup any financial losses caused by the squatter?
While it is possible to sue the squatter for damages, actually recovering the financial losses can be challenging. Consult with an attorney to explore your options and assess the feasibility of recovery.

Evicting a squatter in Washington State can be a complex process that requires adherence to specific legal procedures. It is advisable to seek legal counsel to ensure you navigate the eviction process correctly and regain control of your property efficiently.