Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 59.20.270 — Arbitration — Application — Hearings — Decisions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 59.20.270. Arbitration — Application — Hearings — Decisions.
(1) If the landlord and tenant agree to submit the matter to arbitration, the parties shall complete an application for arbitration and deliver it to the selected arbitrator.
(2) The arbitrator shall schedule a hearing to be held no later than ten days following receipt of the application.
(3) Reasonable notice of the hearings shall be given to the parties, who shall appear and be heard either in person, by counsel, or by other representative. Hearings shall be informal and the rules of evidence prevailing in judicial proceedings shall not be binding. Hearings may be public or private. The proceedings may be recorded. Any oral or documentary evidence and other data deemed relevant by the arbitrator may be received in evidence. The arbitrator may administer oaths, issue subpoenas, and require the attendance of witnesses and the production of books, papers, contracts, agreements, and documents deemed by the arbitrator to be material to a just determination of the issues in dispute. If a person refuses to obey a subpoena or refuses to be sworn to testify, or any witness, party, or attorney is guilty of any contempt while in attendance at any hearing held under this section, the arbitrator may invoke the jurisdiction of any district or superior court, and the court shall have jurisdiction to issue an appropriate order. Failure to obey the order may be punished by the court as contempt.
(4) Within five days after the hearing, the arbitrator shall make a written decision upon the issues presented. A copy of the decision shall be mailed by certified mail or otherwise delivered to the parties or their designated representatives. The decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding upon all parties.
(5) If a dispute exists affecting more than one tenant in a similar manner, the arbitrator may with the consent of the parties consolidate the cases into a single proceeding.
(6) Decisions of the arbitrator shall be enforced or appealed under chapter
7.04A RCW.
Notes
Severability—1984 c 58: See note following RCW
59.20.200.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 59.20.270
What does Revised Code of Washington § 59.20.270 cover?
Section 59.20.270 ("Arbitration — Application — Hearings — Decisions.") 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 § 59.20.270?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 59.20.270" (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 § 59.20.270 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.
