How To Get Your Rental Deposit Back
Looking for advice on how to ensure you get your deposit back when leaving a rental property? Then this article is just what you need. In addition to the important role of self storage units, we also share some valuable tips on what you should and shouldn’t do. But first, let’s recap how rental deposits work.
Rental Deposits In The UK
A deposit is required when renting a property in the United Kingdom and it’s generally one or two months’ rent. It is illegal to force you to pay a deposit of more than 5 or 6 weeks’ rent if your annual rent is more than £50,000. If your landlord has overcharged you, contact your nearest Citizens Advice for assistance.
Your landlord must put your deposit in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme (TDP) if your rental property is on an assured shorthold tenancy that started after 6 April 2007. The landlord or letting agent must deposit your money into a scheme within 30 days of receiving it. They can choose from three government-backed deposit schemes; the Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits or The Dispute Service.
So, what do self storage units have to do with rental properties? Not to worry, we’ll get to that in the next section.
What Happens Next And How Can Self Storage Units Help?
You should receive information about which scheme is being used, how to contact them and what to do if there’s a problem with your deposit. If you don’t get this information, you can ask your landlord or agent.
When the tenancy comes to an end, the tenant must agree on the return of the deposit with the landlord. If there is damage to the property, the cost of repairs will be deducted from the deposit which can also be used to cover unpaid rent or bills.
If there’s a disagreement about how much should be deducted from the deposit, the tenant can ask for it to be protected by one of the schemes. This means that an independent person will look at the evidence and make a decision.
Getting Your Deposit Back: Tips And Tricks
Here are some helpful pointers on how to get your rental deposit back followed by a section on why self storage units can be particularly handy.
Take Photos or Videos of the Property When Moving In and Out
When you move into a rental property, do a walk-through with the landlord or agent and take photos or videos of the condition of the property, including any damage. This will provide evidence if there’s a dispute about the state of the property when you move out. Make sure you get the landlord or agent to sign and date the inventory, so there’s no disagreement about what was included in the property when you moved in.
Keep Records of Rent Payments and Bills
Paying rent on time and in full is one of the best ways to ensure you get your deposit back. Keep records of all rent payments, including any that were made late or missed. This will show the landlord or agent that you took your responsibilities seriously.
If the property is furnished, you may be responsible for paying bills such as Council Tax, electricity and water. Again, keep records of payments to show that you paid on time and in full.
Don’t Damage the Property
It goes without saying that damaging the property will result in deductions being made from your deposit. To increase your chances of getting your money back, take care of the property and don’t allow anyone to damage it.
Leave the Property Clean and Tidy
When you move out, make sure you leave the property clean and tidy. This includes cleaning the oven, fridge, windows and carpets. If necessary, hire a professional cleaning company to do a thorough cleaning.
Don’t Lose the Keys
Losing the keys to the property will likely result in a deduction from your deposit, as the landlord or agent will have to get new ones made. As such, be careful with the keys and be sure to return them when you move out.
Negotiate with the Landlord or Agent
If you have a good relationship with your landlord or agent, you may be able to negotiate certain deductions from your deposit. For example, if there’s minor damage to the property, you could offer to repair it yourself rather than have the cost deducted from your deposit.
Landlord Disputes, Deposits and Self Storage Units
If the landlord refuses to return your deposit, and you think they should you can put the case into dispute. And remember, your deposit should be held in a separate holding account for this very reason.
If you’ve done everything to get your deposit back but are still not happy with the outcome, you can take legal action. This is usually a last resort as it can be rather time-consuming and very expensive. We highly recommend getting advice from a solicitor before taking any action.
In the event of a dispute and you need to leave the property, make sure you take all your personal belongings with you. If you don’t have friends or family where you can store your belongings, self storage units are ideal for this.
Self Storage Units: The Final Piece of the Puzzle
Self storage units can be handy for storing belongings while you’re moving out or while you’re waiting to move into your new home. When doing home renovations or simply decluttering, self storage units are immensely beneficial, affordable and flexible.
If you are in dispute with your landlord, self storage units can keep your belongings safe while the matter is being resolved. You should get your deposit back if you return the property in at least the same condition it was given to you, your rent is paid and all utility bills are covered.
Depending on the agreement with your landlord, you should get your deposit within ten days, minus any deductions as per the agreement.
Short-Term or Long-Term Self Storage Units
Hopefully, this article has given you some helpful tips on how to get your rental deposit back. Remember, taking photos or videos of the property, keeping records of rent payments and bills, and leaving the property clean and tidy will all help your case. And if you have any disagreements with your landlord or agent, self storage units can be a handy solution.
Space Centre has facilities in Gloucester, Bristol, Stroud and Stonehouse providing clean, dry, secure and convenient self storage units for all of your valuables. We have various self storage units available on the ground floor with drive-up access or first-floor units. Our facilities have 24-hour CCTV, 7-day access to external self storage units and insurance up to the value of £3000.
Get in touch with our friendly, professional and trained staff who will assist in any way they can.