The Challenge
Seattle renters need access to accurate information about their rights and responsibilities, but much of that content was locked in dense, text-heavy documents that were intimidating and hard to navigate. The existing renter rights handbook lived as a Word document that was difficult for many to parse, especially for people reading in a second language, those with lower literacy, or renters facing housing stress.
Our challenge was to collaborate with the Renting in Seattle team within the Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) to translate that policy-heavy material into a more approachable, plain-language format without losing legal accuracy.
The process
In partnership with Renting in Seattle (SDCI), I helped adapt the original handbook using plain-language design principles. This meant:
• Breaking complex legal language into shorter, clearer sections
• Creating logical information flow and visual hierarchy
• Adding custom illustration and iconography to support comprehension
• Pairing visuals with text to guide readers through key concepts
• Making the handbook feel welcoming rather than daunting
We structured content around everyday renter questions and scenarios, turned lists and legal descriptions into checklists and diagrams, and visually highlighted the most important rights and responsibilities renters need to know.
The Outcome
The Renter’s Handbook was redesigned as a visual, illustrated guide that explains:
• Finding and securing housing
• Rental agreements and move-in fundamentals
• Fair housing rights and discrimination protections
• Disability accommodations and service animal rights
• Security deposits, utilities, and maintenance expectations
• Eviction protections and dispute resolution routes
The outcome is a handbook that helps renters more easily understand what they can expect from their lease, what rights they have under Seattle law, and how to advocate for themselves. The guide now lives in formats that are easier to share, distribute, and reference — from city websites to community organizations.
