7.24.035 - Security deposits and nonrefundable move-in fees
A.
Limit on the amount of charges for security deposits and non-refundable move-in fees.
After January 15, 2017, the total amount of a security deposit and nonrefundable move-in
fees may not exceed the amount of the first full month's rent for the tenant's dwelling
unit. If rent is not paid or otherwise apportioned on a monthly basis, then for the
sole purpose of applying this limit the total rent shall be pro-rated on an equal,
monthly basis and the total charge to a tenant for the cost of a security deposit
and nonrefundable move-in fees may not exceed the pro-rated, monthly rental amount.
B.
Restrictions on fees
1.
Other than non-refundable move-in fees, security deposits, pet security deposits,
and last month's rent, landlords are prohibited from charging tenants any one-time
fee at the beginning of the tenancy.
2.
Pursuant to RCW 59.18.257, any fees charged to a prospective tenant by the landlord
for the cost of obtaining a tenant screening report cannot exceed the actual cost
of obtaining the report, which may not exceed the customary costs charged by a tenant
screening service in The City of Seattle. The landlord shall provide, personally or
by mail, the prospective tenant with a receipt for any fees charged for the cost of
obtaining the screening report. The landlord shall provide the tenant with the name
and address of the reporting agency and the prospective tenant's rights to obtain
a free copy of the consumer report, pursuant to RCW 59.18.257.
3.
If the tenant has paid a non-refundable move-in fee for cleaning, the landlord may
not deduct additional cleaning fees from the tenant's security deposit.
4.