Are security deposits refundable when a tenant moves out?

In Washington, security deposits are refundable when a tenant moves out, although the amount may vary depending on the tenant’s actions and the landlord’s discretion. Washington law requires the landlord to return the deposit within the time period stated in the rental agreement. Any deductions from the security deposit must be outlined in a written move-out statement, which includes an itemized list of charges and the amount of each charge. Charges can include money for unpaid rent and unpaid charges for necessary repairs resulting from damages caused by the tenant. If the deductions are more than the amount of the security deposit, the landlord also has the right in Washington to pursue the tenant for the remaining balance. The security deposit must be deposited in a separate bank account and cannot be commingled with the landlord’s own funds. It must be kept in this account until the tenant vacates the property and then refunded within the time period agreed upon in the rental agreement. If the landlord does not return the security deposit at the end of the tenancy, the tenant can file a complaint with the Washington Department of Financial Institutions. The department may order the landlord to pay up to three times the tenant’s original security deposit, in addition to a $100 penalty and court costs. In Washington, security deposits are refundable when a tenant moves out and any deductions must be outlined in a written move-out statement. The landlord is required to return the security deposit within the time period agreed in the rental agreement and, if not, the tenant can file a complaint with the State. They may be awarded up to three times the amount of their original security deposit plus penalties.

Are security deposits refundable when a tenant moves out?

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