Security Deposit Rules: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do security deposit rules rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Under RCW 59.18.270, all security and damage deposits collected from King County tenants must be held in a trust account at a Washington financial institution, with the tenant given written notice of the bank's name and address within the lease.
View full Kirkland rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle caps total move-in costs under SMC 7.24, allowing security deposits plus non-refundable fees up to no more than one month's rent, with last month's rent paid separately and installment plans required for tenants who request them.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| State citation | RCW 59.18.270 | - |
| Trust account | Required | - |
| Return deadline state | 30 days | - |
| Seattle deadline | 21 days | - |
| Code sections | - | SMC 7.24; RCW 59.18.260 |
| Deposit + fee cap | - | 1 month rent |
| Refund deadline | - | 30 days after move-out |
| Installments | - | Up to 6 months allowed |
| Account type | - | WA trust account required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I keep tenant deposits in my regular bank account?
No. RCW 59.18.270 requires a separate trust account at a Washington financial institution. Commingling forfeits any right to retain the deposit.
Is carpet cleaning deductible at move-out?
Routine carpet cleaning at the end of a tenancy is generally considered ordinary wear and tear under Washington law and cannot be deducted unless the lease specifies and damage exceeds normal use.
Seattle FAQ
Can the landlord also collect last month's rent?
Yes. Last month's rent is separate from the security-deposit cap, but tenants on a lease of six months or more can pay it in installments alongside the deposit.
What if my deposit isn't returned in 30 days?
Tenants can sue for the full deposit amount plus up to two times the deposit as damages, plus court costs and attorney fees under RCW 59.18.280.
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