Landlord & Tenant Laws in Washington.

Keep the signed move-in checklist, lease, proof of deposit payment, move-out photos, and any written demand. In Washington, the move-in checklist is especially important because it affects whether the landlord may lawfully retain the deposit.

If the amount sought is within Washington small claims limits, a tenant may file in district court small claims. A person may generally claim up to $10,000 there.

A Washington landlord generally may not retain any portion of a security deposit unless the landlord provided the tenant with a written move-in checklist or statement specifically describing the condition of the premises and furnishings at the start of the tenancy.

A Washington landlord generally must return the security deposit or provide a full and specific written statement of the basis for retaining any of the deposit within 30 days after the tenant vacates and termination of the rental agreement.

If a landlord wrongfully withholds a security deposit, Washington law may allow the tenant to recover the amount wrongfully withheld and, in the right case, up to two times the deposit plus costs and attorney’s fees.