Deposits

A deposit is usually the value of one month’s rent, paid on top of your first month’s rent payment before you move into accommodation. The deposit should be paid back to you when you move out, unless damaged cause to the property during your stay is above general expected wear and tear.

In order to avoid disputes about the deposit arising when you move out, you and the landlord should agree on the initial condition of the property when you move in. Take photographs and make sure you ask for an inventory of its contents.

Getting your deposit back

If your deposit is protected under the custodial scheme there may be a slight delay at the end of the agreement in refunding the deposit to you. If you want to close your bank account in the UK before you go home then deposits can be paid back to overseas bank accounts; but you will be charged for this.

If your landlord has control of the deposit then they should refund it promptly at the end of your contract, unless there is a dispute.

If there is a dispute then you can get advice from your university’s advice service or the Citizens’ Advice Bureau.