020 3475 8679If you are a tenant, then you have most likely been wondering what your landlord can deduct from your deposit. Before signing any contracts and before moving out of the rental, you need to know that landlords should only keep money from your security deposit if you have caused them financial loss.
The security deposit is the money you pre-pay before you move into a rental. Your landlord must provide evidence of the costs if they decide to deduct money from the deposit. Some of the most common reasons for deductions are damage to the unit or unpaid rent.
Landlord deducts from deposit London, UK
In case you think that those deductions are unreasonable, you preserve the right to challenge them. Keep in mind that landlords cannot make deductions if you breached some terms of the housing contract but this did not cost your landlord money.
For instance, your landlord cannot deduct money if you kept a pet in the unit and this did not cause any financial loss.
Surprising or not, a poor state of cleanliness in the property is the primary reason for deposit deductions. Tenants are required to clean the unit to the same or better standard as it was when you first moved in.
It is your decision whether you will do the end of tenancy clean on your own or you will book a professional cleaning service. Please note that some tenancy agreements ask for professional clean.
Another reason for deposit deduction is damage. Your landlord may use the money to cover any damages you caused in the unit. They should charge a reasonable price. For instance, if you cause damage to a simple door, you should not be asked to pay for a brand new one.
Remember not to agree to deposit deductions if you believe that they are unreasonable. There should be evidence to prove the cost. Your landlord should also bear in mind how much damage there is and in what condition the item was before the damage.
