Washington State 30-Day Security Deposit Law & Demand Letter Tool
Under RCW 59.18.280 (HB 1074), Washington landlords have 30 days to return deposits. If no signed move-in checklist exists, withholding is barred.
Washington: 30-Day Deposit Return & RCW 59.18 Rights
Under RCW 59.18.280 (HB 1074), Washington landlords have 30 days to return deposits. If no signed move-in checklist exists, withholding is barred.
Why this calculation is mathematically fair
Washington law requires landlords to return the deposit within 30 days. Crucially, under RCW 59.18.260, landlords are strictly prohibited from retaining any deposit funds if a written move-in condition checklist was not signed at the start of tenancy. Bad faith withholding allows recovering up to double damages plus attorney fees.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Washington 30-day deposit clock start? +
The 30-day clock begins on the date the tenant vacates and surrenders the rental unit under RCW 59.18.280.
Can a Washington landlord deduct if there was no move-in checklist? +
No. RCW 59.18.260 explicitly bars any deposit withholding unless a signed, written condition checklist was provided at move-in.
What is the penalty for bad faith in Washington? +
Under RCW 59.18.280(2), courts may award up to twice the deposit amount wrongfully withheld, plus court costs and reasonable attorney fees.
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Explore more Security Deposit Rights Tool scenarios
Under California Civil Code § 1950.5, landlords must return your deposit within 21 days. Generate a formal demand letter and claim up to 2x damages.
New York: 14-Day Deposit LawUnder the NY HSTPA (GOB § 7-108), landlords must return security deposits within 14 days or forfeit all deductions. Generate an official demand letter.
Texas: 30-Day & 3x Deposit LawUnder Texas Property Code § 92.109, landlords must return deposits within 30 days. Bad-faith landlords face 3x treble damages plus $100. Send notice.
Florida: 15-Day Deposit LawUnder Florida Statute § 83.49, landlords have 15 to 30 days to return deposits or make claims. Learn your dispute deadlines and send a statutory notice.
Massachusetts: 30-Day Rule & 3x Treble DamagesUnder M.G.L. c. 186 § 15B, Massachusetts landlords must return deposits within 30 days with interest. Violations carry mandatory 3x treble damages.
Illinois: 45-Day Deposit Law & Chicago CRLTOUnder 765 ILCS 710/1 and Chicago CRLTO § 5-12-080, landlords face strict return deadlines and 2x statutory damages for wrongful deductions.