Washington Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Wash. Rev. Code §59.18.260 to 59.18.280 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 21 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning to same condition at move-in (less reasonable wear). Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that occurs from the reasonable use of the premises by the tenant. Condition checklist at move-in and move-out required..
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to double the amount wrongfully withheld plus court costs and attorney fees under Wash. Rev. Code §59.18.280.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: No statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 21 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $10,000
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Landlord must provide written move-in and move-out condition checklists
- Failure to provide checklists may forfeit right to retain deposit
- Written statement of deductions must be mailed within 21 days
What Your Washington Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Washington's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Wash. Rev. Code §59.18.260 to 59.18.280 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Washington law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that occurs from the reasonable use of the premises by the tenant. Condition checklist at move-in and move...
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Washington Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Washington?
Under Wash. Rev. Code §59.18.260 to 59.18.280, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 21 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Washington landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Washington, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning to same condition at move-in (less reasonable wear). Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Washington?
In Washington: Deterioration that occurs from the reasonable use of the premises by the tenant. Condition checklist at move-in and move-out required.. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Washington landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to double the amount wrongfully withheld plus court costs and attorney fees under Wash. Rev. Code §59.18.280. You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Washington?
Yes. Washington small claims court handles cases up to $10,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Washington?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Washington-specific dispute letter citing Wash. Rev. Code §59.18.260 to 59.18.280 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.