How To Keep Your Deposit
How to Keep Your Deposit
Getting your deposit back in full is important. This guide explains what tenants can do during their tenancy and when moving out to avoid deductions. Deposits are protected in a government approved scheme, but deductions can still be made if the property is not returned in the right condition.
What Your Deposit Covers
Fair wear and tear
* Normal wear and tear is expected and cannot be charged to you * Faded paint, worn carpets, and minor scuffs from everyday use usually fall under fair wear and tear * Damage, neglect, or lack of cleaning does not
What deductions can be made for
* Damage beyond fair wear and tear * Missing items listed in the inventory * Cleaning * Unpaid rent or bills, including council tax where applicable
When You Move In
Check the inventory carefully
* Read the inventory and condition report as soon as you receive it * Report any issues, marks, or missing items within the stated timescale * Take clear, dated photos or videos as evidence
Keep your own records
* Save a copy of the inventory, tenancy agreement, and any emails * Keep photos taken at the start of the tenancy
During Your Tenancy
Look after the property
* Clean regularly to prevent build up of dirt, grease, and mould * Ventilate the property properly, especially kitchens and bathrooms * Use appliances as intended and report faults early
Report issues promptly
* Tell us about maintenance problems as soon as they arise * Early reporting can prevent small issues becoming costly damage * Use the official maintenance reporting system
Avoid unauthorised changes
* Do not redecorate, drill holes, or make alterations without written permission
- Avoid using blue-tac which will mark your walls
Cleaning Standards
What is expected
* The property should be left in suitably clean standard at the end of your tenancy. If you aren't happy with the cleanliness of your property at the start of your tenancy, let us know, as we will expect it to be cleaned to a high standard when you depart. * Kitchens and bathrooms should be thoroughly cleaned * Carpets should be vacuumed and stains treated
Damage and Repairs
Your responsibilities
* Replace light bulbs and batteries where required * Take reasonable care of furniture and fittings * Be responsible for damage caused by you or your guests
Accidental damage
* Minor accidents happen, but damage should still be reported * Do not attempt poor quality DIY repairs * Tell us so the issue can be dealt with properly
When You Move Out
Before you leave
* Remove all personal belongings * Dispose of rubbish correctly, if you leave rubbish on the street and not in bins provided, you may be fined by the local council. * Clean the property thoroughly
On the last day
* Return all keys as instructed * Take final photos once the property is empty and clean * Make sure rent and bills are paid up to the last date of the tenancy, not just the day you move out.
Common Reasons Deposits Are Reduced
The most frequent issues
* Poor cleaning, especially ovens, fridges, and bathrooms * Damage to walls, furniture, or flooring * Items missing compared to the inventory * Rubbish left behind
If There Is a Dispute
How it works
* Any proposed deductions will be explained to you * If you disagree, you can dispute the charges with Purple Frog.
- If we can not reach an agreement, you can raise a dispute with the deposit protection scheme
Final Tips
How to protect yourself
* Treat the property as you would want someone to treat your own home * Keep records throughout the tenancy, not just at the end * Ask if you are unsure about what is expected
If you follow this guide, you significantly improve your chances of receiving your deposit back in full.