The Eviction Resolution Pilot Program in Whatcom County aims to provide better access to resources for landlords and tenants and assist in communicating between the parties to hopefully reduce the number of evictions that are ultimately taken to court. Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center expects this program to go into effect within the next few weeks, and when it does, landlords will be required to utilize it before they are able to file a lawsuit against a tenant to remove them. 

The Eviction Resolution Pilot Program will work like this:

1. If a landlord is interested in pursuing a tenant for unpaid rent, they must send a notice to both the tenant and the Dispute Resolution Center to initiate their participation in the eviction resolution program. 

2. The program will then reach out to the tenant and connect them to rental assistance resources such as the Northwest Justice Project, the Opportunity Council, and Law Advocates. 

3. If the tenant decides to participate, the program will also assist in communicating between the parties while they work on coming to an agreement.  

4. If the parties are able to agree on a resolution without needing to go to court, the program was successful and no eviction is necessary. 

5. If the tenant declines to participate, or if the parties are unable to come to a resolution despite utilizing the assistance provided by the Pilot Program, the landlord will be given a certificate stating that they made an attempt to resolve the issue, which they can then take to court and proceed with filing an unlawful detainer or eviction lawsuit. 

If you are a property owner interested in discussing your legal options for your rental properties, you are welcome to call Limitless Law PLLC at 360-685-0145 to schedule a consultation with an attorney to learn more about your rights.