The Seattle security deposit demand letter that gets deposits back.
Your Seattle landlord must act within 30 days after termination and vacation of the premises under Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.280. If they missed it, the statute is written on your side. We cite the statute, mail your demand USPS Certified, and track the response.
The law that protects your deposit
Deposits in Seattle are governed by Washington state law: Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.280. Intentional refusal to comply can make the landlord liable for up to twice the deposit, plus fees; deductions are forfeited without a timely itemized statement. Full Washington deadline & penalty guide →
Extra protection in Seattle
Seattle caps move-in costs and allows tenants to pay deposits in installments; receipts and checklists are mandatory.
If the landlord ignores your letter
Deposit claims from Seattle are typically filed in the small-claims court serving King County — designed for people without lawyers, with modest filing fees.
Seattle at a glance
Population ~755,000 (U.S. Census 2024 estimate, rounded). Every deposit dispute here runs on the same clock: the 30-day statutory window — and a certified letter is the documented first step.
General legal information, not legal advice. City-specific ordinances change; verify current rules or consult a licensed Washington attorney.