A tenant's failure to pay a security deposit and non-refundable move-in fee according
to an agreed payment schedule is a breach of the rental agreement and subjects the
tenant to a 10-day notice pursuant to RCW 59.12.030(4).
D.
Return or retention of security deposits. The return or retention of a security deposit,
or portion thereof, must comply with the requirements of RCW 59.18.280. The Director
may establish by rule procedures for enforcement of the requirements of RCW 59.18.280.
E.
No deposit may be collected by a landlord unless the rental agreement is in writing
and a written checklist or statement specifically describing the condition and cleanliness
of or existing damages to the premises and furnishings, including, but not limited
to, walls, floors, countertops, carpets, drapes, furniture, and appliances, is provided
by the landlord to the tenant at the commencement of the tenancy. The checklist or
statement shall be signed and dated by the landlord and the tenant, and the tenant
shall be provided with a copy of the signed checklist or statement.
F.
A landlord must place any required security deposit in a trust account and provide
a written receipt and notice of the name, address, and location of the depository
and any subsequent change thereof to the tenant, in compliance with the requirements
of RCW 59.18.270.
G.
Nothing in this Chapter 7.24 prohibits a landlord from bringing an action against a tenant to recover sums exceeding
the amount of the tenant's security deposit for damage to the dwelling unit for which
the tenant is responsible. The landlord may seek attorney's fees for such an action
as authorized by chapter 59.18 RCW.
H.