What can I do if my landlord will not return my deposit?
Start by checking whether the deposit is protected and why money is being withheld. An approved tenancy-deposit scheme may provide free dispute resolution, while an unprotected deposit can create a different county-court issue.
Collect the evidence
- The tenancy agreement and deposit payment record.
- The prescribed information and protection certificate.
- Check-in and check-out inventories.
- Timestamped photographs and videos.
- Cleaning, repair and rent records.
- Messages explaining proposed deductions.
If the deposit is protected
Contact the scheme promptly. GOV.UK says approved schemes offer a free dispute-resolution service when both sides agree to use it. The decision is based on the evidence provided, so organise documents by each disputed deduction.
If protection cannot be found
Contact the approved schemes to check. GOV.UK explains that a tenant may apply to the county court if a deposit was not protected when it should have been. Write to the landlord or agent first and obtain advice before starting proceedings.
Separate the disputes
A claim about failure to protect a deposit is different from a disagreement over deductions. The tenancy type, dates, property location and compliance history matter.
Official information
Use the current GOV.UK deposit-dispute guidance. Then prepare a preview of your own dispute.
General information for England and Wales. Not legal advice. Check current official guidance and urgent deadlines before acting.