Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Under Washington law, paying property taxes on real property does not by itself create any ownership or recorded interest in that property. Washington statutes require that title to real estate convey by a valid deed or instrument recorded in the county auditor’s office (RCW 64.04.020).
Property taxes are a charge on real property imposed by local taxing districts (see RCW 84.56.020). The legal owner of record is responsible for paying these taxes. A third party who pays taxes without any written agreement or recorded interest gains no title or equitable ownership.
In limited circumstances, tax foreclosure proceedings may result in a purchaser acquiring title if the property owner fails to pay taxes. Under RCW 84.64.010, the county may sell tax certificates and, after statutory notice periods, issue a tax deed to the purchaser. Even then, ownership transfers only through court-supervised sale processes, not merely by payment of tax bills.
Some may ask whether payment of taxes supports a claim of adverse possession. Washington requires continuous, open, notorious, and exclusive possession for at least 10 years under a claim of right (RCW 4.16.020). Merely paying taxes without actual possession or other elements of adverse possession does not create ownership.
If you have a contractual agreement—such as a land sale contract or a trust document—that obligates you to pay taxes, document that arrangement in writing and record any interest instrument with the county auditor. Without a recorded document, paying taxes alone yields no ownership interest.
Helpful Hints
- Always record deeds or security interests with the County Auditor to protect your legal rights.
- Obtain a title report before relying on tax payments to support ownership claims.
- Keep written agreements if you pay taxes on someone else’s property.
- Understand tax foreclosure timelines: unpaid taxes can lead to public sale under RCW Chapter 84.64.
- Consult a qualified real estate attorney to review your situation and draft necessary documents.