Deposit problems

How to get your deposit back

Write to your landlord, asking why they are withholding the deposit. Ask them to return it within a fixed time or provide you with a list of reasons, and receipts, to justify why they are withholding it.

Do not withhold the last month's rent as this will make you liable for prosecution.

If your landlord is on the Tenancy Deposit Scheme then warn your landlord that you will complain to them if he does not return the deposit.

If your landlord isn't with the TDS and refuses to return your deposit then consider taking the dispute to the small claims court. Please see our guide on how to use the small claims court for more information.

If your landlord is with the TDS and refuses to return your deposit even after you have complained to him then contact the TDS. The TDS uses an independent arbitration service that will decide if your deposit should be returned to you or not.

If the landlord didn't pay your deposit into an authorised scheme when he should have, then apply to your local court for a court order. More information can be found on the courts service website.