What does RCW 59.18.280 address?
Landlord cannot charge for ordinary wear and tear. Open the current official text to check coverage, definitions, and exceptions for your situation.
RCW 59.18.280: Landlord cannot charge for ordinary wear and tear
Compare this Washington source with your dates, records, and the conditions that apply to your rental.
Reviewed: 2026-08-11
How sources are checked →Deadline context
30 days
Possible remedy
Full deposit; discretionary award up to 2x deposit
What the cited source addresses
Landlord cannot charge for ordinary wear and tear.
Read the current official sectionHow to review this source with your facts
- Document ordinary aging versus true damage with photos.
- Challenge deductions for paint, carpet wear, and routine turnover items.
- Review age, prior condition, repairability, actual cost, and betterment when relevant under the controlling rule.
Frequently asked questions
Questions to compare with the current source before using the citation in a letter or filing.
How long does a Washington landlord have to return the deposit?
30 days after termination and tenant vacates (30 days).
Could a penalty or other remedy apply?
Full-deposit liability for noncompliance; a court may award up to 2x the deposit for intentional refusal, plus suit or arbitration costs and reasonable attorney fees, subject to statutory exceptions. Check the source's required facts, conditions, notices, defenses, and remedy language before relying on it.
Next steps
Check the current source, calculate the relevant dates, and organize the records you may reference.