A tenant in Eastbourne has won back £100 by challenging deductions to his deposit. The tenant’s landlord was attempting to make various deductions for replacement items that had been subject to fair wear and tear.

The tenant contacted Brighton SolFed for advice on what he could do in this situation, given that he had already moved out and was unable to gather his own evidence. After some brief discussion about the different ways that deposit theft can be challenged – such as by checking whether your landlord has correctly protected the deposit, and challenging your landlord to produce invoices for items that they allege needed replacing – the tenant opened correspondence with the landlord about the deductions. The landlord immediately agreed to return £100, which the tenant was happy to accept.

Deposit theft is a common practice in the private rental sector. Sometimes all it takes to get your money back is the confidence that you have the support of others who understand the situation you’re in.

Having trouble getting your deposit back? You can find information about your rights at: http://www.brightonsolfed.org.uk/housing-union?qt-new_housing_union_tabs...

We also have a template letter for challenging deductions to your deposit: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bw5UAacBVuedWnJ1VUlfOS1CYXM/view?usp=sh...