How to Get Your Deposit Back: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your deposit is your money, and you should expect to get it back when you move out—assuming you haven't caused damage beyond normal wear and tear. However, disputes over deposits are common. Here's how to protect yourself and maximise your chances of a full refund.

Before you move in: Document everything

Take photographs and video of the property on your first day, documenting its condition in detail. Capture any existing damage, marks, or wear. Send these to your landlord or letting agent with a summary of what you've noted. This creates a baseline and prevents disputes later about what damage you're responsible for.

During your tenancy: Keep it in good condition

Normal wear and tear is expected and landlords cannot charge you for it. This includes faded paint, minor scuffs, or worn carpet. However, you are responsible for damage caused by negligence or misuse. Clean regularly, fix small issues promptly, and report problems to your landlord immediately to prevent them from worsening.

Before you move out: Deep clean and repair

• Give the property a thorough clean, including inside appliances and behind furniture
• Fix minor damage like nail holes and scuffs where possible
• Replace any items you've broken or significantly damaged
• Take photographs again showing the property in clean condition
• Make a list of what you've cleaned and repaired

At the end of tenancy: Know your rights

Your deposit must be held in a government-backed scheme and you must receive prescribed information about how it's protected. When you move out, your landlord has 30 days to either return your deposit in full or provide an itemised breakdown of deductions. If they claim deductions, they must provide evidence like repair quotes or cleaning invoices.

If there's a dispute

If you disagree with deductions, contact your letting agent or landlord first. If you can't reach agreement, you can take the matter to the scheme's dispute resolution service. This is free and independent, and the scheme must follow their decision.

By documenting the property's condition at the start and end, maintaining it well, and knowing your rights, you significantly improve your chances of receiving your full deposit back promptly.