Federal Way, WA asked in Landlord - Tenant for Oregon

Q: When can a landlord give you 90 days to move during the current moratoreum? Plus, are realtors required to wear masks?

Our story is a little long, but our landlord told us we have 90 days to move through a text on the day they listed the house we're renting for sale. As a side note, we've lived here for approx. 3.5 years and have always paid our rent on time.

The second question has to do with the fact that the listing realtor refused to wear a mask when she came over to take pictures for the listing, even after we told her she could not come in without one and offered her a disposable, she then tried to push her way in anyway. My husband blocked her entry, so she then just stubbornly peeked through all the windows.

There's a lot more to this story, but I should probably just call a lawyer. I'm 5 months pregnant, this has been incredibly stressful, and I don't feel we're being treated very well, so i just want to know what our rights are.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Gregory L Abbott
Gregory L Abbott
Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Portland, OR
  • Licensed in Oregon

A: First, no termination of tenancy notice can lawfully be served by text or email; ONLY by personally handing the written notice (containing all the required information) to a tenant; by mailing it regular first class mail (NOT Certified) and adding on an extra 4 days, including the day of mailing; or, if your written rental agreement provides for it, by posting a copy on your main entrance door and mailing it to you (the advantage being they do not have to add the extra 4 days for compliance). Second, a landlord can only issue a 90 day termination of tenancy notice AFTER they have accepted an offer to buy the house and the buyer certifies in good faith that they intend to occupy the rental dwelling as their primary residence AND the landlord provides you a copy of the sale paperwork verifying it all. Any attempt to terminate your tenancy prior to that may entitle you to collect damages, court costs, and attorney's fees. As for the realtors, you do not have to allow them to show the house except when convenient for you and then ONLY with proper protective gear. I'd insist upon both gloves and masks for all who enter your home. If they do not or refuse, you refuse them entry. If they push, call the police the same as you would for anyone trying to force their way into your house. And, of course, the realtor must provide at least 24 hours advanced notice of their intent to enter which you are free to allow or disallow as long as you do not deny the entry unreasonably. I don't think you will find a Judge anywhere who wouldn't support you requiring use of protective gear before entering.

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