Washington: rules and deadlines at a glance

Every 9 topic we track for Washington on one page. Open a topic for the details, the law it comes from and how Washington compares.

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Claim deadlines · Small claims limits · Property division · Dog bite rules · Shared fault rules · Security deposit rules · Eviction notice rules · Property tax rates

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply; open a topic for the details.

Filing deadlines (statute of limitations)

Property damage	3 years

Claim deadlines

Acknowledge	10 working days
Accept or deny	30 calendar days from notice of the claim (rules effective Oct. 18, 2026)
Pay	Not set by rule

Small claims limits Single detailed source

Dollar limit	$10,000 (individuals); $5,000 (others)
Filing fee	$35 or $50
Lawyers	Only with the judge's consent

Property division

System	Community property
Opt-in community property	No

Dog bite rules Single detailed source

Rule	Strict liability
Details	Strict liability

Shared fault rules

Rule	Pure comparative negligence
When you are barred	Up to 99% at fault: damages reduced by your share

Security deposit rules Single detailed source

Maximum deposit	No state limit
Return deadline	30 days

Eviction notice rules Single detailed source

Notice before filing	14 days to pay or vacate

Property tax rates

Effective rate	0.75%
On a $300,000 home	$2,250 a year