This guide begins when the tenancy ends and the landlord proposes how much deposit to return. Its focus is the evidence for each deduction, the undisputed amount and the scheme dispute route. Deposit protection at move-in is covered separately.
Key steps for tenants
Ask for an itemised explanation of deductions.
Compare checkout with the check-in inventory and photographs.
Agreed sums should be returned within 10 days.
The protection scheme offers a free dispute route.
Ask for the proposed breakdown
Request the checkout report, each proposed deduction and evidence such as photographs or invoices. Compare them with the signed inventory, check-in photographs and correspondence about repairs. Ordinary fair wear and tear is different from damage, and the landlord should not receive a better replacement at your expense.
Agree what you can
If part of the deposit is undisputed, ask for that part to be released. Once you and the landlord agree the amount to return, it should be repaid within 10 days. Keep the scheme reference and bank details up to date.
Use the scheme if you disagree
The government-approved deposit schemes offer a free dispute resolution service. Both sides provide evidence, and a decision through that service is final. There may be a time limit to raise a dispute, so contact the scheme promptly rather than waiting indefinitely.
If you cannot find the scheme
Ask the agent which scheme holds the money and check with the approved schemes directly. If no approved scheme protected a deposit that should have been protected, seek independent advice about repayment and your options. The deposit protection guide explains what information should have been provided at the start.
