Tenancy deposits

Read here about what deductions a landlord can and can’t make from a tenancy deposit.

Deductions a landlord can make

A landlord can usually make certain deductions from the deposit after a tenant leaves a rented home.

Landlords can usually deduct money from a deposit to cover:

• unpaid rent;
• damage to the property;
• missing items;
• cleaning costs.

What a Landlord can deduct money for must be set out in the tenancy agreement or a separate document signed by both the tenant and landlord. 

A landlord must inform the tenant of what the deductions are for and how much for each item. Any amount then left over must be returned to the tenant. If an agreement cannot be reached in relation to the deposit amount to be returned, the next step would be to exercise the adjudication/open a dispute through the tenancy deposit protection scheme where the deposit has been protected.

Deductions a landlord can’t make

• costs of re-letting the property;
• unpaid gas, electricity or water bills if your name is on the bill.

Damage to property

The inventory should state the condition of the walls, paintwork and carpets when the tenant moves in. The landlord will check the condition of the property against the inventory when the tenant leaves, landlords have to account for normal wear and tear, this will depend on the type of property and on the tenants i.e number of rooms, number of those living at the property.

Your landlord will check the condition of the property against the inventory when you leave, It’s important you check and agree the inventory is accurate before you sign it.

Cleaning costs

Property must be left clean, the tenancy agreement will include details of whether or not you need to have the property professionally cleaned.

If you need any further assistance, please contact our landlord and tenant team here.