Can my landlord require both a security deposit and a damage deposit in Washington?

No. In Washington, all such deposits are considered a single security deposit, and separate damage deposits are not allowed.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Washington?

Washington law requires landlords to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions within 21 days after you move out.

What if I don't agree with the deductions from my deposit?

You should send a written dispute to your landlord and, if unresolved, may file a claim in Washington Small Claims Court.

Is a move-in checklist required for security deposits?

Yes. Landlords must provide a move-in condition checklist for any unit where a deposit is taken. You should keep a copy.

Where does the landlord have to keep my security deposit?

Your security deposit must be kept in a trust account with a financial institution located in Washington, and the landlord must disclose the account details to you in writing.

Security Deposit and Damage Deposit Rules for Washington Renters

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Washington published June 21, 2025

If you're renting a home or apartment in Washington, understanding how security deposits and damage deposits work is important for protecting your interests. Washington State law sets clear rules about what landlords can require, how deposits must be held, and how you can get your money back when you move out. This guide breaks down the key differences, timelines, and legal protections for renters regarding deposits in Washington.

Key Differences: Security Deposit vs. Damage Deposit

In Washington, the terms "security deposit" and "damage deposit" are sometimes used interchangeably in rental agreements, but they serve the same legal purpose. Washington law recognizes all such payments under the general term "security deposit," which landlords hold as financial protection against:

Unpaid rent or utilities
Damages to the rental unit (beyond normal wear and tear)
Unpaid cleaning costs if the unit is not returned in a reasonably clean condition

There is no separate or additional 'damage deposit' allowed beyond the total security deposit amount per Washington's tenant rights laws^[1].

Washington Security Deposit Laws: What Renters Need to Know

Requirements Before Paying a Deposit

Written Lease: The landlord must provide a written rental agreement describing the terms of the security deposit.
Written Checklist: You must receive a written statement (sometimes called a move-in checklist) detailing the condition of the property.
Always walk through the unit, note any damage, and keep a copy of this checklist for your records.

Where Security Deposits Must Be Held

The landlord is required to place your deposit in a trust account at a financial institution located in Washington.
Landlords must inform you in writing of the bank's name, address, and account details where the deposit is kept.

Returning Your Security Deposit

After you move out, the landlord has 21 days to return your security deposit or give you a written itemized statement if any portion is withheld.
The itemized statement should clearly explain each deduction (e.g., damages, unpaid rent, cleaning fees).
If the landlord fails to provide either the refund or itemized statement within 21 days, you may be entitled to get your full deposit back.

Allowed Deductions from Deposits

Landlords in Washington can only keep part of your security deposit for:

Unpaid rent or bills required under your lease
Cost of repairing damage caused by you (not normal wear and tear)
Cleaning beyond what is normally expected

They cannot deduct for normal wear and tear, which means deterioration that happens with typical use over time.

Washington Official Forms and Move-In/Move-Out Inspections

Required Forms

Move-In Condition Checklist – Required by law before you pay a deposit.
- When to use: At the start of your tenancy, before handing over a deposit.
- Example: When getting keys, you and the landlord walk through the unit together and note the condition of appliances, floors, and walls. Both sign the checklist, and you keep a copy.
- See examples and requirements at the Washington Attorney General’s website

What to Do If There Is a Dispute

First, try to resolve the issue directly with your landlord in writing.
If the deposit is not returned, or you disagree with deductions, you can send a written demand letter stating your claim and referencing Washington’s landlord-tenant laws.
If informal efforts do not work, you can file a claim in Washington State Small Claims Court or seek help from consumer protection services.

Tip: Always keep copies of your lease, checklist, all correspondence, and photos of the property to support your case if you need to make a claim.

Where to Get Legal Guidance on Tenancy Issues

The Washington State Attorney General's Office provides a summary of landlord-tenant rights, including security deposit information.
The Washington State Courts system is the official venue for rental disputes.

Washington’s main law for rental deposits is the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).^[1]

FAQs: Washington Deposit Rules for Renters

Can my landlord require both a security deposit and a damage deposit?
No. Washington law treats all such deposits as one combined security deposit – landlords cannot require separate or additional deposits for damages beyond the total security deposit.
How quickly does my landlord have to return my deposit after I move out?
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 21 days of your lease ending and you moving out.
What should I do if I don't agree with the deductions made from my deposit?
Send a written dispute to your landlord first. If that doesn’t work, consider filing a small claims court case or seeking help from the Washington Attorney General.
Do I need to complete a move-in checklist?
Yes. This is required for all tenancies involving a deposit. Always keep a copy for your records.
Where is my deposit supposed to be held?
Landlords must keep your deposit in a trust account with a financial institution in Washington and disclose the account details to you in writing.

Conclusion: What Washington Renters Should Remember

Washington law requires security deposits (including damage deposits) to be handled transparently, with specific move-in documentation and a strict 21-day return window.
Documenting the property’s condition at move-in and keeping copies of all forms can help protect your rights.
If disputes arise, options include communicating in writing, demanding in accordance with the law, and seeking resolution through Washington State Courts.

By understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding deposits, you can move with greater confidence and avoid unnecessary disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

See Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18.260–.285) for full legal details about security deposit rules.
Find official forms and tenant guidance at the Washington State Attorney General's website.