m2m tenant in seattle. gave 30 days notice as required, moved out april 1. just got the itemized statement keeping all $1,950 of my deposit for "carpet cleaning beyond normal wear and tear." carpets were ratty when i moved in 4 years ago. feels obviously bogus.
WA RCW 59.18.280 — landlord must itemize within 21 days, must provide actual receipts. "carpet cleaning beyond normal wear" is the most common BS deduction in the country. demand the actual cleaning invoice.
also: did you have move-in photos? the burden is on landlord to show condition WORSENED beyond normal wear. tenancy of 4 years also typical reduces or eliminates legitimate cleaning deductions.
WA also has a treble damages provision for bad-faith deposit retention. demand letter + small claims is your path. file fee is like $80. don't let them keep your money.