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Washington security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In Washington, a landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (Rev. Code Wash. § 59.18.280). Under Washington law, a landlord who wrongfully keeps a deposit can owe up to twice the amount of the deposit.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

30

days for a Washington landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions

The deadline

Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and the tenant vacates, the landlord must give a full and specific statement of the basis for keeping any part of the deposit, with any refund.

What the landlord must send you

A full and specific statement, with copies of estimates or invoices for damage charges.

If the landlord misses the deadline

A landlord who misses the deadline or the documentation is liable for the full deposit and can't claim any right to keep it, with narrow exceptions (Rev. Code Wash. § 59.18.280(2)).

Penalty for wrongful withholding

For an intentional refusal to give the statement or refund, the court may award up to two times the deposit, plus costs and reasonable attorney's fees (Rev. Code Wash. § 59.18.280(2)).

Read the law

Summary checked against the statute on October 29, 2026. Not legal advice; laws change, so confirm with the source before relying on it.

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Washington security deposit FAQ

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

Within 30 days after the rental agreement ends and the tenant vacates, the landlord must give a full and specific statement of the basis for keeping any part of the deposit, with any refund.

What must a Washington landlord send when keeping part of the deposit?

A full and specific statement, with copies of estimates or invoices for damage charges.

What happens if a Washington landlord misses the deadline?

A landlord who misses the deadline or the documentation is liable for the full deposit and can't claim any right to keep it, with narrow exceptions (Rev. Code Wash. § 59.18.280(2)).

What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a security deposit in Washington?

For an intentional refusal to give the statement or refund, the court may award up to two times the deposit, plus costs and reasonable attorney's fees (Rev. Code Wash. § 59.18.280(2)).

How do I get my security deposit back in Washington?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 30 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites Rev. Code Wash. § 59.18.280 and sets a payment date. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court in the county where the rental is located.

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