How can a tenant protect their security deposit?

A tenant in Washington can protect their security deposit by having a written agreement with their landlord. This agreement should include the amount of the security deposit, how long the tenant has to keep it, and how much may possibly be deducted from it for any damages caused by the tenant. This written agreement should also state that in the event of a dispute, the tenant may file a complaint with the Washington State Department of Commerce. The tenant should also keep records of the condition of the rental unit when they move in, including any damages or defects that are already present. This can be done by taking photos or making a list of any existing damage. The tenant should submit this list to their landlord and keep a copy of it for their records. Additionally, the tenant should communicate regularly with their landlord to ensure that any repair issues reported by the tenant are addressed in a timely manner. Tenants should also make sure they document any repair requests for their records. Finally, the tenant should pay their rent on time and pay any fees or charges that are agreed upon with the landlord. This will help protect the security deposit if the tenant is ever challenged on it.

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How can a tenant protect their security deposit?

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