Washington § 59.18.055 - Notice — Alternative procedure — Court's jurisdiction limited — Application to chapter 59.20 RCW.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.055 — Notice — Alternative procedure — Court's jurisdiction limited — Application to chapter 59.20 RCW., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 59.18.055. Notice — Alternative procedure — Court's jurisdiction limited — Application to chapter 59.20 RCW.

(1) When the landlord, after the exercise of due diligence, is unable to personally serve the summons on the tenant, the landlord may use the alternative means of service as follows:
(a) The summons and complaint shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the premises unlawfully held, not less than nine days from the return date stated in the summons; and
(b) Copies of the summons and complaint shall be deposited in the mail, postage prepaid, by both regular mail and certified mail directed to the tenant's or tenants' last known address not less than nine days from the return date stated in the summons.
(2) When service on the tenant or tenants is accomplished by this alternative procedure, the court's jurisdiction is limited to restoring possession of the premises to the landlord and no money judgment may be entered against the tenant or tenants until such time as jurisdiction over the tenant or tenants is obtained.
(3) Before the entry of any judgment or issuance of a writ of restitution due to the tenant's failure to appear, the landlord shall provide the court with a declaration from the person or persons who served the tenant that describes the service achieved, and if by alternative service pursuant to this section, that describes the efforts at personal service before alternative service was used and a declaration from the landlord stating his or her belief that the tenant cannot be found.
(4) For the purposes of subsection (1) of this section, the exercise of due diligence is met if the landlord attempts personal service on the tenant at least three times over not less than two days and at different times of the day.
(5) This section shall apply to this chapter and chapter 59.20 RCW.
[ 2019 c 356 s 11; 1997 c 86 s 1; 1989 c 342 s 14.]

Notes

Intent—2019 c 356: See note following RCW 59.12.030.

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 59.18.055

What does Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.055 cover?

Section 59.18.055 ("Notice — Alternative procedure — Court's jurisdiction limited — Application to chapter 59.20 RCW.") 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 § 59.18.055?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 59.18.055" (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.

How does Washington § 59.18.055 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.