Washington Security Deposit Move-Out Checklist

Before you move out in Washington, document the rental-agreement termination date, vacation date, forwarding address, move-in checklist, condition of the rental, and how you returned keys or access. Those facts affect the 30-day deposit statement, documentation, and refund process.

Use this checklist to create a clean record before the dispute starts.

Before move-out

• Save your written rental agreement.
• Save your signed and dated move-in checklist.
• Request a replacement copy of the checklist if you do not have one.
• Confirm the rental-agreement termination date in writing.
• Give your landlord your current mailing address in writing.
• Ask how keys, fobs, gate cards, and access devices should be returned.
• Save your deposit receipt and any depository notice.

At move-out

• Take photos and video of every room.
• Photograph floors, carpets, walls, appliances, bathrooms, fixtures, windows, doors, and furnishings.
• Keep cleaning receipts or a short cleaning log.
• Keep carpet condition evidence if carpet cleaning may become an issue.
• Return all keys and access devices as agreed.
• Save proof that you vacated and returned access.

After move-out

• Calendar 30 days after termination of the rental agreement and vacation of the premises.
• Watch for a full and specific statement.
• Save estimates, invoices, receipts, vendor documents, labor records, or any other deduction support sent by the landlord.
• Save the envelope, postmark, tracking record, or delivery record.
• Compare deductions to Washington's ordinary-use, carpet-cleaning, checklist, and documentation rules.
• Dispute unsupported charges in writing.

Related Washington guides

• Washington security deposit deadline
• What can a Washington landlord deduct?
• Washington security deposit evidence guide
• Washington security deposit demand letter

The checklist above helps you organize the record. The paid system gives you the letters that use that record at each step.

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Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.