Washington Quitclaim Deed

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What Is a Washington Quitclaim Deed?

A Washington quitclaim deed is a legal document used to transfer whatever interest a person (the grantor) currently has in a piece of real estate to another person (the grantee) without providing any warranties or guarantees about the title. It simply says, "I am transferring whatever rights I hold in this property to you." If the grantor doesn't actually own the property, or if there are liens against it, the grantee receives the property with those issues and has no legal recourse against the grantor.

When to Use a Quitclaim Deed in Washington

Quitclaim deeds are fast and straightforward, making them ideal for low-risk transfers where the parties know and trust each other. Common uses in Washington include:

  • Transferring property between family members, such as a parent to a child.
  • Adding or removing a spouse from the property title after marriage or divorce. Washington is a community property state, meaning spousal consent may be critical.
  • Moving real estate into a living trust or an LLC owned by the grantor.
  • Clearing up a "cloud" on the title, such as correcting a misspelled name on a previous deed.

Washington Requirements for Quitclaim Deeds

  • Signing: The grantor must sign the deed. Because Washington is a community property state, a spouse's signature may also be required if they have an interest in the property.
  • Notarization: The grantor's signature must be acknowledged before a notary public.
  • Witnesses: Washington does not require witnesses to sign the deed.
  • Recording: Record the deed at the County Auditor or Recorder in the county where the property sits.
  • Transfer Tax / Recording Fees: Washington levies a real estate excise tax (REET) of $1.10 per $1,000 (plus potential local taxes). Recording fees also apply.
  • Legal Description: A formal legal description must be included.

Quitclaim Deed vs Warranty Deed in Washington

The main difference between a quitclaim deed and a warranty deed in Washington is the level of protection for the buyer. A warranty deed guarantees that the grantor actually owns the property free and clear of undisclosed liens, and holds them liable if title issues arise later. A quitclaim deed offers zero protection. For traditional real estate sales between strangers, a warranty deed is normally used, while quitclaim deeds are reserved for trusted, non-sale transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a quitclaim deed transfer a mortgage in Washington?

No, a quitclaim deed only transfers the ownership interest in the property. The original borrower remains financially responsible for the mortgage unless the lender agrees to a formal assumption or the loan is refinanced.

Can I use a quitclaim deed to remove someone from a deed?

Yes, if the person being removed signs a quitclaim deed transferring their interest to the remaining owner.

Do I need an attorney for a quitclaim deed in Washington?

While you can legally draft and file a quitclaim deed yourself, having an attorney review it ensures you meet all local requirements and don't inadvertently trigger tax or ownership issues.

How long does a quitclaim deed take to process?

Once signed and notarized, the transfer is legally effective between the parties. However, it becomes public record only after it is processed by the County Auditor or Recorder, which can take a few days to a few weeks.

Is a quitclaim deed safe to use?

It is perfectly safe when used between family members or trusted parties. It is not recommended when buying property from a stranger, as it offers no protection against hidden liens or title defects.