Addressing service of notice by mail in cases involving forcible entry and forcible and unlawful detainer.

HB 1003 amends Washington state law to clarify how eviction notices must be served by mail in forcible entry and unlawful detainer cases. It requires that notices sent by certified mail (from within Washington) be considered complete upon deposit in the U.S. mail, and adds a mandatory five-day waiting period before an eviction action can begin after mail service. The bill directly affects tenants, landlords, and legal processes in housing disputes by standardizing mail service procedures and extending the timeframe for tenants to respond. This change, effective July 27, 2025, aims to ensure clearer notice delivery in eviction cases while providing additional time for affected residents.