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Under WA landlord tenant law is a tenant entitled to a refund of deposit if tenant breaks the lease

Asked over 2 years ago - Bellevue, WA

Breaking a Lease Landlord / Tenant Real Estate

I have broken my lease by moving out before the end of the term.
I had a walk out inspection with my landlord.
Can I still expect a refund on my security deposit after the legal 14 days, even though as a result of me breaking the lease I forfeited it ? .

Your advice is very much appreciated!

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Attorney answers (1)

Elizabeth Rankin Powell

Reputation Level 20

Answered over 2 years ago. Landlord / Tenant Lawyer in Tacoma, WA.

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It depends on the terms of your lease agreement and the deposit. If your lease agreement describes a true security deposit, e.g. t hat you have to fully perform all terms of the agreement, then you may have forfeited your deposit by leaving early. If it is a damage deposit, then if the place has no damage to it you can make a better argument that you should get the deposit you paid back. That said, I am not looking at your agreement and I don't know if it is really a lease or not.

Hope this helps. Elizabeth Powell

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