As necessary protections, landlords must understand the laws impacting security deposit retention that are specific to the city of Seattle. Tenants must follow precautions and understand their rights as well. Holmquist + Gardiner frequently advises landlords and tenants on how to resolve security deposit disputes.

The Washington State Legislature enacted a new law that goes into effect January 1, 2020, and applies to existing and future noncompetition covenants, including “every written or oral covenant, agreement, or contract by which an employee or independent contractor is prohibited or restrained from engaging in a lawful profession, trade, or business of any kind.”

A major concern for any transaction or real estate contract negotiation is the survival period for the representations and warranties. In simple words, how long will those promises be enforceable? For real estate buyers and sellers, the survival period – how long that promise is upheld – can impact each party differently.

Eminent domain is the right of government entities to seize private property for public use, with fair compensation. It’s a powerful tool offered to federal, state and local governments, including government agents like Sound Transit. Eminent domain is a worry for current residents and business owners in West Seattle, Northgate, the International District and Lynwood, where the path of future light rail projects are at various stages of planning and development.

Any landlord delivering an eviction notice to a tenant must follow the procedures to the letter of the law. The delivery of eviction documentation must be clear, traceable and extensive. Any slip, or lack of clarity in the proper delivery of eviction notices, could see the landlord’s eviction request kicked out of court. Such failures occur at a surprising rate. 

The attorneys at Holmquist + Gardiner have extensive experience supporting landlord-tenant legal issues. We routinely provide guidance to landlords of multi-family and commercial properties who seek the eviction of a tenant in breach of…

The last thing a homebuyer wants is to emotionally commit to purchasing a home and then lose it. Similarly, no seller wants to select a buyer, only to see the home sale fall apart. Everybody made plans. Suddenly, both parties have to start over. When the sale falls through, both buyer and seller can feel an emotional attachment to the initial earnest money deposit. That’s when earnest money disputes arise.

Sales fall through for unexpected reasons. Sometimes it’s an unforseen life event, cold feet or a sudden change in finances. Earnest money disputes seek to determine whether the buyer or the seller deserves to retain the original monetary deposit. If you’re a potential buyer or seller, it’s a good idea to understand a few concepts about earnest money to help reduce the possibility of a bitter trip to the courtroom.