Washington Security Deposit Laws
Complete guide to security deposit rules, deadlines, and tenant rights in Washington.
21
Days to Return
No statutory limit
Max Deposit
Yes
Itemization Required
Up to 2x (non-compliance penalty)
Potential Penalty
Security Deposit Return Deadline
Landlords have 21 days after the tenancy ends to return the deposit with an itemized statement of deductions. If the landlord fails to provide the statement, they may forfeit their right to claim any deductions.
Legal Reference: RCW 59.18.280
Maximum Security Deposit
Washington does not have a statewide limit on security deposit amounts, but Seattle has local ordinances limiting deposits. Most landlords charge 1-2 months' rent.
Legal Reference: RCW 59.18.260
Penalties for Violations
Up to 2x (non-compliance penalty)
If a landlord fails to provide an itemized statement within 21 days or acts in bad faith, tenants may recover up to twice the amount of the deposit.
Legal Reference: RCW 59.18.280
What is Normal Wear and Tear?
Landlords generally cannot charge tenants for normal wear and tear. Examples typically include:
- ✓Faded paint from sunlight
- ✓Carpet worn from normal walking
- ✓Minor wall scuffs from furniture
- ✓Small nail holes from pictures
- ✓Worn flooring from regular use
- ✓Minor appliance wear from normal use
Landlord Obligations
- 1Provide written checklist at move-in
- 2Return deposit with itemized statement within 21 days
- 3Describe specific damage and repair costs
- 4Mail statement to tenant's last known address
- 5Hold deposit in trust (cannot commingle)
Tenant Rights
- ✓Receive move-in checklist documenting condition
- ✓Receive itemized statement of all deductions
- ✓Right to request final inspection
- ✓Sue in small claims court (up to $10,000)
- ✓Recover up to 2x deposit for non-compliance
Common Landlord Violations
These are issues that tenants frequently encounter with security deposits in Washington:
- !Missing the 21-day deadline (forfeits deduction rights)
- !Not providing itemized deductions
- !Charging for normal wear and tear
- !Not providing move-in checklist
- !Excessive cleaning charges
- !Not mailing to tenant's forwarding address
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a landlord have to return my deposit in Washington?
In Washington, landlords have 21 days from when you vacate to return your deposit with an itemized statement of deductions. Missing this deadline may forfeit their right to make deductions.
What can a Washington landlord deduct from my security deposit?
Landlords can deduct for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning costs. They must provide an itemized statement describing each deduction.
Does my landlord need to provide a move-in checklist?
Yes, Washington law requires landlords to provide a written checklist describing the condition of the unit at move-in. This protects both parties and helps resolve disputes at move-out.