Washington has no deposit cap. Refund is due within 30 days. Interest belongs to the landlord by statute unless agreed otherwise. A dedicated trust account at a qualifying institution is required.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
—
no statutory cap
Return deadline
30
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
No
not required
Separate account
Required
Maximum Security Deposit
No statutory maximum
Cap not established from §59.18.280; other statutes/local rules need review.
Return Deadline
30 days
After tenancy termination and vacancy; abandonment: after landlord learns of abandonment.
Interest on Deposit
Not required
RCW §59.18.270 expressly gives account interest to the landlord unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Separate Account Required
Required
RCW §59.18.270 requires prompt deposit into a dedicated trust account at a qualifying financial institution or Washington licensed escrow agent; depository disclosure required.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
No ordinary wear; carpet cleaning requires documented abnormal wear; fixture/appliance/furnishing charges require initial checklist and proportionate costs.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Washington statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Washington?
Washington does not set a statutory maximum for security deposits. Landlords and tenants may agree to any amount in the lease. Cap not established from §59.18.280; other statutes/local rules need review.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Washington?
Washington landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 30 days after the tenancy ends. After tenancy termination and vacancy; abandonment: after landlord learns of abandonment.
Does Washington require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
No. Washington law does not require landlords to pay interest to tenants on security deposits. RCW §59.18.270 expressly gives account interest to the landlord unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Must Washington landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
Yes. Washington requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account. RCW §59.18.270 requires prompt deposit into a dedicated trust account at a qualifying financial institution or Washington licensed escrow agent; depository disclosure required.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a Washington deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in Washington before making decisions. Official source: https://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=59.18.280. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.