What is Renter Certification?

Renter Certification helps people gain meaningful housing through communication training, connection to resources, and mediation services. We currently offer Renter Certification for people in Thurston, Mason, Grays Harbor, Pacific and Wahkiakum Counties.

In our 2-hour Renter Certification classes, you will learn about:

- Learn about the basics of renting (e.g., rental contract, credit history) and your rights as a tenant.
- Develop a rental resume and budget.
- Learn effective communication skills to improve conversations with your landlord (e.g., active listening, negotiating).
Learn about our conflict coaching and mediation services that are offered to people who complete the Renter Certification class. Our conflict coaching and mediation services help create bridges that support reentry for people who are experiencing landlord-tenant conflict.

DRC trainings are highly interactive, collaborative, and engaging. Our strengths-based learning environment encourages students to share, explore, and learn from one another. We use many learning methods including lecture, demonstrations, and small group activities. The concepts, skills and lessons we teach at the DRC are designed to improve communication, enhance relationships, and foster learning in all settings.