How To Swerve An End Of Tenancy Drama

Published: 30/08/2024

Taking care of a rental property and ending a tenancy can be really stressful, especially when you're trying to ensure you get your full deposit back. There are so many horror stories in the news that you don’t know what to expect. The key to avoiding disputes with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) is to be proactive and communicative with your landlord or letting agent throughout your tenancy. Trust us when we say that there are several practical steps you can follow to maintain the property in good shape and - hopefully - wrap up your tenancy smoothly.

When you first move into a rental property, it's crucial to document everything. Take a thorough inventory of the property, including detailed photos of every room, fixtures, fittings and appliances. Make a note of any existing damage or wear and tear and report it to your landlord or letting agent immediately. This initial step sets a clear benchmark for the property's condition at the start of your tenancy and can be invaluable when it comes time to move out. Most agents or landlords will provide you with an inventory, so you don’t have to create your own, but please don’t put it in a drawer and forget about it; find time to cross-reference it first to make any edits that are required. Once this is done, a copy of the document should be returned to its creator, and any issues must be addressed; then, you can put it away in a drawer until the end of the tenancy. But not a second sooner! You will thank us later.

Your Responsibilities…

Living in a rental property means you are responsible for day-to-day maintenance. Regular cleaning is a no-brainer, but paying attention to the little things can make a big difference, too. Keep an eye out for leaks, damp spots, and mould. Deal with these issues promptly; not only do they get worse over time, but they can also cause significant damage that could come out of your deposit. We see damage caused by condensation every day. Although it can occasionally be caused by the structure of the property, it is still the tenant’s responsibility to report the issue and keep on top of mould removal and appropriate ventilation measures. If something breaks or stops working, inform your landlord or letting agent as soon as possible. Prompt reporting ensures that repairs are carried out quickly, preventing further damage and showing that you’re a responsible tenant. It also shows that you are a tenant who cares about the property that you currently call home.

Outdoor spaces, if you have them, need regular upkeep, too. Mowing the lawn, trimming the hedges, and clearing out gutters is down to you unless you are one of the fortunate few who has a gardener included within your tenancy…it isn’t common practice, but it is a luxury that some are blessed with, so always check the terms of your tenancy agreement. Neglecting the garden or outdoor area can lead to a significant deduction from your deposit, as landlords expect these spaces to be maintained just as well as the interior of the house.

Throughout your tenancy, communication with your landlord or letting agent is key. Keep them informed about any issues that arise and be cooperative when they need to access the property for inspections or repairs. A good relationship with your landlord can make a big difference, especially if you need their understanding later on. Everyone benefits from a mutually respectful relationship.

5 Steps to Take in Preparation…

1. As your tenancy draws to a close, start preparing for the end well in advance; this includes checking your tenancy agreement for any specific requirements about how the property should be left. Many contracts will have clauses about professional cleaning or carpet cleaning, so be sure to arrange this if necessary. Start decluttering and deep cleaning a few weeks before your move-out date. Pay special attention to commonly overlooked areas like behind appliances, inside cupboards, and light fixtures. And don’t forget to clean the windows and any window sills, as these are often checked during the final inspection and are just as often missed…trust us on this one.
2. On the day you move out, do a final walkthrough of the property with the inventory and the photos you took when you moved in. This comparison will help you spot any discrepancies and address them before the landlord’s inspection. If you’ve caused any damage, be honest about it. Sometimes, fixing minor issues yourself can be cheaper and easier than having the landlord deduct the cost from your deposit… make sure any repairs you do are up to a good standard, though. Dodgy Dave from down the road is not the guy to call in!
3. Don’t forget to remove all your personal belongings from the property. This might seem obvious, but it’s surprisingly common for tenants to leave things behind, which can then result in deductions from their deposit for removal costs. Leaving behind a clean, empty property is essential for getting your full deposit back.
4. Once you’ve moved out, return all the keys to your landlord or letting agent. This includes not only the front door key but any spare keys, garage keys, or gate keys. Failing to return keys can result in charges for changing locks, which will be deducted from your deposit. After you’ve moved out and handed over the keys, your landlord will typically conduct their final inspection. Be available for this inspection, if possible, as it gives you a chance to address any issues on the spot – which is highly advisable.

What If There is a Dispute?

If there are deductions from your deposit that you disagree with, communicate with your landlord or letting agent immediately. Most disputes can be resolved through open and honest communication. If you can’t reach an agreement, the TDS offers a free dispute resolution service, which acts as an impartial third party to resolve the issue. To support your case, provide all the documentation you have, including the initial inventory, photos, and any correspondence about repairs and maintenance during your tenancy. Remember, your deposit is your money, and you have a right to get it back, provided you’ve met the terms of your tenancy agreement and left the property in good condition. By being diligent and proactive, you can minimise the chances of a dispute and ensure a smooth end to your tenancy.

Taking care of a rental property isn’t just about following rules; it’s about respecting someone else’s property and leaving it in a state that you would be happy to find it in if you were the next tenant or you were moving back into your family home.