Seattle Renters
Get Your Security Deposit Back in Seattle
Your Seattle landlord has 30 days to return your security deposit after you move out. Know your rights and hold them accountable.
30
Days to return
$2,200
Avg. rent
750K
Population
Seattle Local Info
Washington requires deposits be returned within 21 days. Seattle has additional tenant protections including limits on move-in costs and fees.
Local Ordinance
Seattle Municipal Code 7.24 - Rental Agreements
Washington requires 21 days for deposit return. Landlord must provide itemized statement with documentation for deductions.
Penalties: 2x the deposit amount for wrongful withholding under Washington law (RCW 59.18.280). May also recover attorney fees and court costs.
Read the full ordinance →Seattle Deposit Rules
Interest Required
No
Return Deadline
30 days
Penalty
2x the deposit amount for wrongful withholding under Washington law (RCW 59.18.280). May also recover attorney fees and court costs.
Get Your Deposit Back in Seattle: Step by Step
Know the 21-Day Washington Deadline
Your Seattle landlord has 21 days from your move-out or lease termination (whichever is later) to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement.
Review Seattle-Specific Protections
Seattle has additional tenant protections beyond state law, including limits on move-in costs and required payment plans for deposits.
Document Move-Out Condition
Take timestamped photos and video. Request a joint walk-through inspection if possible.
Send a Demand Letter
Reference RCW 59.18.280 and the 2x penalty for wrongful withholding. Send via certified mail with return receipt.
File in King County Small Claims
File your claim at King County District Court. Bring your lease, photos, demand letter, certified mail receipt, and any landlord communications.
Calculate Your Seattle Deadline
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Local Small Claims Court
Court
King County District Court - Small Claims
Address
516 Third Ave., Seattle, WA 98104
Filing Fee
$35-$50
Claims Limit
$10,000
Washington Security Deposit Law
Return Deadline
30 days after move-out
Penalty for Late Return
You can recover up to twice your deposit amount, plus court costs
Seattle Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my Seattle landlord have to return my deposit?
21 days under Washington law (RCW 59.18.280). They must provide an itemized statement and documentation for any deductions.
What happens if my Seattle landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
You may be entitled to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney fees and court costs.
Are there limits on security deposits in Seattle?
Seattle limits move-in costs and requires landlords to offer payment plans for deposits. Washington state doesn't cap deposit amounts but requires them to be reasonable.
Can my Seattle landlord charge for carpet cleaning?
Only if the carpet has damage beyond normal wear. Washington courts have ruled that routine carpet cleaning between tenants is the landlord's responsibility.
Where do I file a small claims case in Seattle?
File at King County District Court Small Claims Department. Claims up to $10,000. Filing fee is $35-$50.