Your landlord (or letting agent) must promptly return your deposit at the end of the tenancy, unless they can prove to the deposit protection scheme’s dispute tribunal that damage beyond ‘reasonable wear and tear’ occurred during your tenancy, or that there are outstanding arrears. They must also prove that the disputed amount is what is needed to recover their loss, with sufficient evidence.

You are entitled to dispute any of the proposed deductions to your deposit return. You do not have to prove that damage did not occur as the responsibility lies with your landlord (or agent) to prove their claim. Click ‘enforce this right’ for our simple guide on how to dispute deposit deductions.