What are the laws governing the return of a security deposit?

In Washington, the laws governing the return of a security deposit are outlined in the Landlord-Tenant Act. According to the Act, when a tenant moves out of a rental unit, the landlord must refund the tenant’s security deposit within twenty-one days of the tenant vacating the premises, after deducting any amounts owed for unpaid rent, utilities, or damages. If the landlord cannot make the refund within the twenty-one day period due to extenuating circumstances, the landlord is required to notify the tenant in writing of the delay. In addition, landlords must provide itemized statements to the tenant detailing any deductions made from the security deposit, as well as any remaining balance to be refunded. In Washington, landlords may make deductions from the security deposit for unpaid rent, utilities, and damages caused by the tenant. In order to deduct for damages, the landlord must provide evidence of the repair costs in the form of receipts. The landlord is allowed to charge the tenant for reasonable cleaning and painting costs, however, the tenant will not be charged for normal wear and tear resulting from normal use of the premises. In the event of a disagreement between the landlord and tenant, either party can file a complaint with the Washington State Attorney General’s office, which will investigate the situation. If the Attorney General finds that the landlord has wrongfully withheld the security deposit, the landlord may be ordered to make payment to the tenant as well as face a civil penalty. It is important for tenants to understand the laws governing the return of security deposits in Washington, so that they can protect their rights and ensure that their deposits are returned in a timely and accurate manner.

What are the laws governing the return of a security deposit?

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