30 Jul How to get your rental deposit back in full

Renting a property brings with it a level of convenience and flexibility but there’s also the responsibility of ensuring your home is maintained and within good condition. If not, there’s a huge risk that you won’t get your full rental deposit back. In our latest blog, we explain why and outline our best practice tips to help you out when it comes to the end of the tenancy. 

Read the tenancy agreement 

This should be done before signing anything at the start but it’s also important to regularly go back to your agreement and ensure you fully understand it. This document will outline your tenant responsibilities, how the property should be maintained and the reasons why your deposit might be held. There should also be a detailed inventory, which was completed at the start of your tenancy, outlining the contents of the property and its condition. 

Clean the property regularly 

Regularly cleaning your property will not only make it a nicer place to live but it will prevent any dirt and grime from building up, ensuring an easier end of tenancy clean. Don’t forget to clean carpets, windows and appliances. And, if you do spot any potential issues, report them to your landlord or letting agent promptly to prevent them from turning into costly repairs.

Document the property’s condition

As mentioned, when you first moved in, you should have been provided with an inventory to track the contents and condition of the property. It’s a good idea to check this inventory throughout your tenancy and update it where necessary as it can act as valuable evidence if there is a dispute later down the road. Be sure to take photos of the property and any damage and maintain a record of any correspondence you have with your letting agent or landlord regarding repairs. When you move out, take photos and videos again to document the condition of the property. 

Follow end of tenancy procedures 

Your tenancy agreement will also outline specific actions that need to be taken at the end of the lease. This can include the likes of a deep clean, inventory review, damage repair and key return. It’s important that all keys including fobs are returned and any items that have been moved from within the property are back in situ. 

Know your rights

There are several reasons why money can be deducted from your deposit so it’s important that you know what these are. Landlords can only charge for damage caused by misuse or neglect and cannot charge for normal wear and tear. However, be mindful that unresolved maintenance issues such as unpaid rent and bills and even uncleanliness can result in deductions. 

How Kaytons can help

Getting your full rental deposit back requires attention to detail and diligence throughout the tenancy but, at Kaytons, our team of letting professionals are here to help you every step of the way. What’s more, whether you need support with an existing lease or are perhaps looking for a new one, we can advise on the next best steps. So what are you waiting for? Email us today at info@kaytons.co.uk or pop into our Chapel Street office.