Friday 14-08-2015 - 13:05

 

Have you received charges against your rental deposit that you believe are unfair?

 

We understand that a number of our members have recently been notified of charges against their rental deposits.

 

If you receive correspondence from your landlord/ lettings agent that your deposit will be used to cover additional charges that you feel are unfair, then you can challenge this. Do not feel that you simply have to accept any penalties you believe are unjust.

 

We are aware of several cases where our members have successfully opposed unwarranted levies against their deposit money, such as: 

 

*Charges against damage it was insisted tenants had caused, but photographic evidence then proved that the damage was pre-existing.

 

*Deposit money withheld after being accused of owing money for utility bills, but when proof was requested, in the form of a paid utility bill, the matter was then simply dropped.

 

*A rent agreement that included “all bills” but then a charge was levied against the deposit for internet usage, once again it was successfully challenged.  

 

You can challenge the amount in full or in part but to do so you must first contact your landlord/ lettings agent and try to come to an agreement with them directly. If you wish to seek help in doing this then you can contact our Advice & Representation Centre .

You can also find more detailed information here  on how to carry on with your challenge if agreement cannot be reached.