Steps to take
- Ask your landlord or agent in writing for an itemised list of the deductions, with evidence and costs
- Check which approved scheme holds your deposit, and look at its guidance
- Collect your evidence: inventory, dated photos, receipts and messages
- If you cannot agree, raise a dispute through the scheme's free dispute resolution service, within its time limits
- Seek advice from Shelter or Citizens Advice if the situation is complicated
What strengthens your case
- Dated photos from move-in and move-out
- A professional cleaning receipt
- The check-in inventory showing the original condition
- Written messages confirming agreements
Prevention
The best protection is evidence from the start of the tenancy to the end, which is why we recommend recording everything.
Common questions
Is there a time limit to dispute?
The schemes and the courts have time limits, so act quickly and check the current rules on gov.uk.
Would you rather we did it for you?
Ample Cleaners offers end of tenancy cleaning across Barking, Dagenham, Romford, Ilford and surrounding areas, with DBS-checked cleaners and a fixed price.