How to Avoid Deposit Disputes

We are very proud of the service that we provide to both our landlords and our  tenants in North Oxfordshire and South Northants. We believe that our approach benefits both parties and contributes to a minimal number of deposit-related issues at the end of a tenancy.

These are our top tips avoid deposit disputes at the end of a tenancy.

Landlords:

Have your Property Professionally Cleaned
Always have your property professionally cleaned before a new tenancy commences. This removes any ambiguity over the cleanliness of the property when your tenants move in and makes it clear to the tenants the condition that they must return it in.

Inventory
Having an inventory drawn up by a professional inventory clerk can often quash any room for argument and protects both the landlord and the tenant.  Always make sure to include their check in/check out service. It is worth noting that without a full and detailed inventory/check-in/check-out report the tenancy deposit schemes are unlikely to find in the landlord’s favour if you bring a claim against a tenant’s deposit. A list on a piece of paper is simply not good enough. Cutting corners with inventories is often a recipe for future problems. We always say to landlords to begin the tenancy with the end in mind.

Keep the inventory updated
As tenancies progress landlords often need to replace things (like washing machines, for example). Or improvements may be made (a new bathroom, for example).  Attach a copy of the invoice for such items to the inventory.  That way, the inventory clerk will know what to look for at the check-out.

Tenants:

Get the Property Professionally Cleaned
When your tenancy ends, you will need to return the property “as you found it”, less fair wear and tear.  Consider using the same cleaning company that the landlord/agent used before your tenancy started to ensure that it is cleaned to the same standard it was when you moved in.  Cleaners occasionally miss things, it’s easily done – so discuss with them and your landlord/agent whether or not the cleaning company will be allowed back in to put things right after you move out. Rectifying any issues can avoid a costly deduction from your deposit.  Note: the landlord is not legally obliged to agree.

Repair any Damage
Discuss any damage and your proposed solution with your landlord/agent before the check-out since it may well be possible to find a cost effective option that you can deal with yourself.

Communicate
Once your tenancy is over, and you have received the check-out report make sure that you deal with it promptly.  If there are issues to be resolved then polite and professional communication is always the best way to deal with any deposit disputes.

Finally, if things aren’t working out the way you expected, try not to get overly emotional.  This will invariably make matters worse. We've seen issues that should have been solved quickly and easily escalated to the adjudication process with one of the tenancy deposit schemes.  This is very time-consuming and stressful for all involved.  A little common sense and give-and-take can soon resolve all issues, which means everyone is left feeling happy.

If you want to let your property quickly, professionally, and cost effectively give us a call on 01869 337346 or send an email to ask@cherry-lets.co.uk and we will be happy to share our honest, expert and friendly advice with you.