Q: We have a problem and don’t know who to consult.

Maybe you can recommend a lawyer or someone. We own a rental house here on Vashon and have decided that we want to sell it. We’ve had an appraisal and are really happy with the price we were quoted. The problem is the renters. Their lease isn’t up for a couple of months and we want them out of there now so we can sell the place. My husband has been calling them and asking them to leave and also we’ve been over there with some real estate people who say the house would show better empty. How can we get these people out?

A: I think that if you plan to engage an attorney it should be to explain Washington Landlord Tenant Law to you. I believe that you are in violation of that law and the renters could have a case against you for harassment. For instance, are you aware that they are entitled to at least a two day notice before you intend to enter the house? They have the right to enjoy their home in peace with no harassment from you or anyone else. The home is theirs until the end of their lease unless they have broken the lease agreement or caused some major nuisance.

You should also understand that selling the house does not automatically end a lease. In addition, I suggest you read the provision of the law concerning taking retaliatory actions against a renter. That could get you into some trouble too.

I would recommend that you speak to them and see if you could buy them out of their lease. If they aren’t willing to leave early, I suggest you wait until they move out to put your house on the market. You made a contract with these people and you need to keep it. They could make it very difficult for you if they wanted to, so it’s in your own best interests to work with them, not against them.