How to get my security deposit back?

Getting Your Security Deposit Back: A Practical Guide

Securing the return of a tenancy deposit largely depends on careful preparation and clear communication. In the UK, most tenancy deposits for assured shorthold tenancies must be protected in one of three government-backed schemes: Deposit Protection Service (DPS), MyDeposits, or Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS). This ensures fair handling and a clear process for disputes, should they arise.

Understand the Initial Condition: The Check-in Report

Upon moving into a property, a detailed inventory and check-in report is crucial. This document outlines the property's condition, including any existing damage, wear and tear, and the cleanliness level. It should be agreed upon and signed by both the tenant and the landlord or letting agent. Taking your own timestamped photographs or videos at this stage provides invaluable evidence later on.

Maintain the Property During Tenancy

During the tenancy, it is important to treat the property with care. Address minor issues promptly and report significant maintenance needs to the landlord or agent as per your tenancy agreement. Keeping the property generally tidy helps prevent accumulation of dirt and damage that could impact your deposit.

Preparing for Departure: End-of-Tenancy Tasks

The period leading up to moving day is critical for ensuring the property is left in an acceptable state, mirroring the condition recorded in the initial inventory, allowing for reasonable wear and tear.

• Cleaning: The property should be returned to the same standard of cleanliness as at the start of the tenancy. Often, this means a thorough end-of-tenancy clean. Some tenants opt for professional cleaners, retaining receipts as proof.
• Repairs: Attend to any minor damage caused during the tenancy, beyond fair wear and tear. This might include reattaching loose fittings or dealing with minor marks on walls. Guidance on whether filling holes in the wall is necessary often depends on the tenancy agreement and the size of the holes.
• Rubbish Removal: Ensure all personal belongings and rubbish left over after moving are completely removed from the property, including gardens, sheds, and communal areas. Councils have specific rules for disposing of larger items, so check local guidelines well in advance.
• Utilities and Meter Readings: Take final meter readings for gas, electricity, and water on the day you leave. Inform your utility providers of your departure and provide a forwarding address for final bills.
• Key Return: Return all sets of keys, including any for windows, sheds, or communal gates, to the landlord or agent as agreed.

The Check-out Process

A final check-out inspection will be conducted by the landlord or agent, typically on the day of departure. This report will be compared directly with the initial check-in inventory. It is advisable for tenants to be present during this inspection if possible, allowing for immediate discussion of any perceived discrepancies. Again, taking timestamped photos or videos as you leave provides a robust record of the property's condition.

Deposit Return and Dispute Resolution

Once the check-out is complete, the landlord has 10 working days to return the deposit or to inform you of any proposed deductions. If deductions are suggested, a clear breakdown and justification must be provided. If an agreement cannot be reached, and the deposit is protected by a scheme, either party can raise a dispute with the scheme's Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service. This service acts as an impartial adjudicator, reviewing all evidence presented by both tenant and landlord to make a fair decision.

Administrative Considerations

Remember to provide a clear forwarding address to the landlord or agent for any post-tenancy correspondence. Setting up mail redirection with Royal Mail is also a sensible step to ensure you receive any vital documents.