When a Tenant Who Lives Alone Dies

In the unfortunate event of the death of a tenant, what happens? Last July the Washington Legislature updated the law passing RCW 59.18 regarding tenants who will occupy a property as a sole occupant. This new law requires that the occupant designate a personal representative to contact in the event of their death. A separate paper must be completed that is separate from the lease agreement providing contact information for this representative. The person that has been given this task will be responsible to remove the tenant’s personal property, take care of outstanding rents and handle all other issues related to the deceased person’s tenancy.