How can a tenant legally challenge a security deposit deduction?

In Washington, a tenant has the right to challenge security deposit deductions made by their landlord. A tenant may challenge the deductions by sending a letter to their landlord asking for an itemized list of deductions they made from the security deposit. In the letter, the tenant should include proof that they paid the security deposit in full and that they returned the rental property in its original condition. If the tenant is not satisfied with their landlord’s response to their request for an itemized list of deductions, they may file a complaint with the Washington Department of Community Development and Housing (CDH). The CDH will review the tenant’s complaint and the landlord’s explanation of the security deposit deductions. The CDH may decide to award the tenant a portion of the deposit if it determines that a deduction was made without legal justification. If a dispute arises between the tenant and the landlord regarding the security deposit, the tenant may seek legal advice from an attorney. An attorney will be able to provide them with advice specific to their situation and may be able to help them negotiate a resolution with the landlord. The tenant can also take their landlord to small claims court if they wish to pursue the security deposit dispute further. In the court, the tenant will be able to present evidence to support their claim that the security deposit deductions were not justified. The court will then rule in favor of the tenant or the landlord.

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How can a tenant legally challenge a security deposit deduction?

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