WA · Security Deposit Law

Security deposit laws in Washington

30 days; up to 2x damages + attorney fees.

Return deadline

30 days

Itemization required

Yes

Bad-faith multiplier

What to do if your Washington landlord won't return your deposit

  • Confirm the 30-day window has passed since you provided a forwarding address.
  • Document the unit's move-out condition with photos and any walk-through notes.
  • Send a formal demand letter citing Washington's deposit return deadline and statutory damages.
  • If the landlord ignores your demand, file in small claims court — Washington allows up to 2x damages for wrongful withholding.
Generate a Washington demand letter