What to ask a seller when rental records conflict

Make the request specific

A useful request names the property, advertised claim and document that needs an explanation. Ask for the complete relevant file, including attachments or referenced plans, rather than a new summary of the same claim.

Request enough context to match the evidence: address or OPA account, document title, record number, issue date and the passage about use or units. Avoid collecting tenant names, bank details or other personal information that does not answer the property question.

Use a worked request

Fictional examples: these requests illustrate how to investigate a discrepancy. They do not describe a real property or prescribe a legal conclusion.

A third unit appears in the listing

The listing describes three dwellings, while the supplied zoning document describes two. Please provide the later property-specific approval, its referenced plans and any associated occupancy document that explain the third dwelling.

The only supplied certificate says R-3

The supplied page states an occupancy classification but no numeric dwelling count. Please provide the complete certificate and the relevant plans or approval passage that states the number of dwellings.

The seller cites a license that has expired

Please provide the current license record, its covered units and dates, and explain the gap after the earlier record expired. If the use changed during that period, include the approvals supporting that change.

Owners or authorized parties can request available City copies; obtaining plans may require written authorization. L&I record-copy instructions.

Read the response in context

First match the property. Then quote the exact passage and original page number. Keep a date printed in the document separate from its download date. Ask whether an attachment or later approval changes the passage's scope.

If the answer remains incomplete, state what was supplied and what question is still open. The City distinguishes licensing, zoning use and occupancy requirements; a packet comparison cannot determine every approval's continuing legal effect. Compare the document types.

The fictional sample packet shows passages connected to specific questions. Paid document comparison is not accepting new orders. You can still use these requests and the free record check to prepare your own follow-up.

Not legal advice or a title, lien or physical-condition inspection. Confirm material questions with the responsible City department or a qualified professional. The free checker compares records within its stated scope.