Washington § 18.44.450 - Referral fees prohibited — Consumer protection act — Application.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 18.44.450 — Referral fees prohibited — Consumer protection act — Application., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 18.44.450. Referral fees prohibited — Consumer protection act — Application.

(1) "Real property lender" as used in this section means a bank, savings bank, savings and loan association, credit union, mortgage company, or other corporation, association, or partnership that makes loans secured by real property located in this state.
(2) No real property lender, escrow agent, or officer or employee of any escrow agent or real property lender may give or agree to pay or give any money, service, or object of value to any real estate agent or broker, to any real property lender, or to any officer or employee of any agent, broker, or lender in return for the referral of any real estate escrow services. Nothing in this subsection prohibits the payment of fees or other compensation permitted under the federal Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act as amended (12 U.S.C. sections 2601 through 2617).
(3) The legislature finds that the practices governed by this subsection are matters vitally affecting the public interest for the purpose of applying the consumer protection act, chapter 19.86 RCW. Any violation of this section is not reasonable in relation to the development and preservation of business and is an unfair and deceptive act or practice and an unfair method of competition in the conduct of trade or commerce in violation of RCW 19.86.020. Remedies provided by chapter 19.86 RCW are cumulative and not exclusive.
[ 2000 c 171 s 17; 1999 c 30 s 33; 1988 c 178 s 3. Formerly RCW 18.44.145.]

Notes

Severability—1988 c 178: See note following RCW 18.44.400.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 18.44.450

What does Revised Code of Washington § 18.44.450 cover?

Section 18.44.450 ("Referral fees prohibited — Consumer protection act — Application.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 18.44.450?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 18.44.450" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

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Sources & Verification

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