Security deposits in Tacoma follow Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act under RCW 59.18, with limits on installment timing, written checklists, and prompt return after move-out.
Washington law in RCW 59.18.260 through RCW 59.18.285 governs deposits, requiring a written rental agreement and a move-in condition checklist before any deposit can be collected. Landlords must hold deposits in a Washington-based trust account or escrow, disclose where they are held, and return the balance with an itemized statement within 30 days of move-out. Tacoma's Rental Housing program, TMC 1.95, also limits the size of upfront deposits relative to monthly rent and allows installment payment of large move-in costs.
Improperly withheld deposits expose landlords to double-damages claims under RCW 59.18.280 and additional remedies under TMC 1.95 if local installment rules are ignored.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma allows residential lawn ornaments and yard art without permits provided they do not exceed the 15-foot accessory-structure height limit in TMC 13.06 a...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. The Noise Code (TMC 8.122) applies to continuously running blower motors...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance at TMC 8.122 applies to any amplified ...
Tacoma, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Tacoma require building permits from Planning and Development Services (PDS) when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas pip...
Tacoma, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Tacoma single-family yards are permitted but subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section 9.11, ...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma adopts the International Fire Code through TMC Title 3 (Fire Prevention) as Tacoma Fire Code. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices...
See how Tacoma's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.