Apply an apartment in Washington State is an exciting step, whether you are moving to the area for the first time or looking for a fresh start in a new neighborhood. But before you can hand over your boxes and get the keys, there is a process you need to go through. Landlords across the state, including right here in Snohomish County, have specific requirements that every applicant must meet. Knowing what to expect before you begin can save you a lot of time, stress, and back-and-forth emails.
If you are looking to apply for apartment in Washington rentals and want to know exactly what to gather, this guide walks you through every piece of the puzzle, from the paperwork to the financial qualifications.
Why Landlords Have Rental Requirements
It helps to understand why landlords ask for so much information upfront. They are not trying to make the process difficult. They are looking for residents who will pay rent on time, take care of the unit, and be good neighbors in the community.
Protecting the Community and the Property
Every application gets screened to protect both the landlord and the other residents living in the building. A landlord reviews your history because it gives them a picture of how you have handled prior housing situations. At Williams Investments, we look at credit reports, rental history, criminal background, eviction records, and employment details, all to make sure we are creating a safe and stable community for everyone.
Washington State Fair Housing Laws
Washington State has clear fair housing protections in place for renters. According to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office, landlords must follow the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, which outlines rights and responsibilities for both parties. Knowing these laws helps you understand what a landlord can and cannot ask during the application process.
Documents You Will Need to Apply for an Apartment in Washington State
When you decide to apply for apartment in Washington properties, coming prepared is half the battle. Here is a breakdown of what most landlords will ask you to provide.
Government-Issued Photo ID
Every adult over the age of 18 who will be living in the unit must submit a valid, current photo ID. This could be a state-issued driver’s license, a passport, or any other government-issued identification. It is a standard first step that confirms your identity before anything else is reviewed.
Social Security Number or Alternative Documentation
Most landlords will ask for your Social Security number to run a credit and background check. If you do not have one, a passport, Visa, or ITIN number is typically accepted as an alternative. Make sure whichever document you provide is current and not expired.
Proof of Income
This is one of the most important parts of the application. Landlords want to know you can consistently afford the rent without financial strain. Most properties in Washington State require applicants to earn at least two times the monthly rent amount. Common documents that verify income include recent pay stubs, bank statements from the last few months, or federal tax returns if you are self-employed or work in a non-traditional arrangement.
If you receive income from a housing voucher program such as Section 8, it is worth asking the property upfront whether they accept it. At Williams Investments, we do accept vouchers from the Everett and Snohomish County Housing Authorities, Volunteers of America, and several other programs.
Rental History and References
Landlords want to see at least 12 months of verifiable rental history from a third-party landlord within the last two years. If you have owned a home instead of renting, that can be verified through tax records or your credit report. First-time renters, or those whose rental history cannot be confirmed by a third party, may be asked to provide an additional security deposit.
If you have had late payments, be upfront about them. Four or more late payments within a single 12-month period may result in a denial, while fewer than four may simply result in an added deposit requirement.
For a full overview of what gets reviewed at Williams Investments before you move in, take a look at our rental criteria page, where everything is laid out clearly.
Credit and Background Check Requirements
Once you submit your application, the landlord will run a credit check and review your background. Here is what that typically involves when you apply for apartment in Washington rentals.
Credit Score and Outstanding Debts
There is no fixed minimum credit score at every property, but your overall credit picture matters. Open bankruptcies are generally a disqualifying factor. A discharged bankruptcy may still be considered if you have added security. Medical debt and student loan debt are often looked at separately from regular consumer debt, so do not panic if you carry either of those.
Criminal Background Review
Criminal background checks are standard practice across Washington State. In Snohomish County, many landlords review criminal history going back seven years. Certain serious charges can result in denial, while other offenses are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The key thing to know is that a past arrest record alone does not automatically disqualify you.
Eviction History
Any eviction on your record within the past seven years, whether paid or unpaid, will typically be a red flag for landlords. Washington State passed the Eviction Record Sealing Law, which gives tenants a legal process to seal certain eviction records under specific circumstances. Checking your own rental history before you apply can help you know what landlords will see.
Deposits and Application Fees
Understanding what you will owe upfront is just as important as knowing what documents to bring.
Application Fees
At Williams Investments, all applications are completely free of charge. Many renters do not realize this is an option, but we believe the process of finding a home should not cost you before you even move in. You can start your free application today without paying a single fee.
Security Deposits and Holding Fees
Once approved, you will typically need to pay a security deposit, which starts at $600 at most Williams Investments properties. A non-refundable carpet and administrative fee of $150 is also standard. If you want to hold a unit while your application is being processed, a holding fee of $250 is required. Keep in mind that all move-in payments must be made via cashier’s check, money order, or credit card where available.
Units can typically only be held for up to two weeks, and we do not accept deposits on units that have not yet been vacated.
Pet Policies and Additional Applicants
If you plan to bring a pet or have roommates, there are a few extra things to sort out.
Pets
Dogs and cats are welcome at many Williams Investments communities. Dogs require a $500 non-refundable fee, and the weight limit is 25 lbs with a maximum of one dog. Cats require a $150 non-refundable fee with a maximum of two cats. If you have a service or companion animal, a separate accommodation process is in place. You can review the full details on our pet policy.
Roommates and Co-Applicants
Every adult who will live in the apartment must complete a separate application. Income from all applicants is combined when evaluating whether the household meets the income requirements. This is especially helpful if one applicant alone does not meet the two times rent threshold.
How Long Does the Application Process Take?
Most applications take up to 72 hours to process, not including weekends. If your application is approved, you will hear back with next steps. If it is denied, you will receive an adverse action letter explaining the reason.
Coming prepared with all your documents from the start is the best way to speed things along. Incomplete or inaccurate applications take longer to process and can sometimes result in denial on their own.
Ready to Apply for an Apartment in Washington State?
Now that you know what to expect, the next step is finding the right place to call home. Williams Investments manages over 50 properties across Snohomish County, including apartments in Everett, Marysville, Arlington, Lynnwood, Mill Creek, and Mukilteo. Whether you are looking for something affordable, income-restricted, or a newer luxury community, there is a great option waiting for you.
Browse available homes, explore neighborhoods, and when you are ready, start your apply for apartment in Washington process with us completely free. Visit ouravailable properties page to see what is currently open near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to apply for an apartment in Washington State?
You will typically need a government-issued photo ID, a Social Security number or ITIN, proof of income such as pay stubs or bank statements, and at least 12 months of verifiable rental history.
How much income do I need to qualify for an apartment in Snohomish County?
Most landlords, including Williams Investments, require that your combined household income equals at least two times the monthly rent amount.
Does Williams Investments charge an application fee?
No. All applications at Williams Investments are completely free of charge. You can apply online without paying any fees upfront.
Can I apply if I have a Section 8 voucher?
Yes. Williams Investments accepts housing vouchers from the Everett and Snohomish County Housing Authorities, Volunteers of America, the YWCA, and several other assistance programs.
How long does the application review take?
Applications take up to 72 hours to process, not including weekends. Having all your documents ready when you apply helps avoid delays.
What happens if my application is denied?
You will receive an adverse action letter that clearly explains the reason for the denial. This gives you a chance to address the issue or look into other housing options.
Can I apply with a roommate if I do not meet the income requirement on my own?
Yes. All adult applicants in the household can combine their income to meet the two times rent requirement. Each adult must fill out their own application.
