Worried about estate agents taking my deposit ...

[bloomers]

Does anyone know whether it is possible at the time of the final inventory check on a property to get an independent, perhaps legal opinion as to whether the property is in a reasonable state? Based on past experience with my estate agents, I am worried that they are going to withold most of our deposit without valid reason! Many thanks if you can help ...

[Loosehead]

This is a problem with letting agencies and estate agents. They invariably steal the deposit on some pretense or other. Trouble is this has arisen because of problem tennents in the past, now the pendulum has swung the other way. The only thing you can do is with hold the last 2 months rent but this has it's own problems.

[brachiopod]

They now have to provide you with reasons or a breakdown of why they've witheld you deposit.

Eg;
Repair to door - �80
Carpet cleaned to remove stain - �50

The charges have to be 'reasonable' aswell.
Also, they cannot charge you for just general deep cleaning. (For example, steam cleaning the carpet just because "they always do it between tenants") unless of course there was a big stain on it. This is considered 'fair wear and tear', which you shouldn't pay for.

However, (and it's a big however), you'll probably find they will make up some damage just so they can get the repairs/cleaning done at your expense.

Try and get someone from the agents to go round with you at the time you vacate the property or hand over the keys. Agree in writing if there is any damage on a room by room basis. If there is nothing wrong in any room, get them to state this on the list.
"XYZ room - no damage - left in clean state." etc Perhaps take a load of photos too?

Realistically speaking, if they do withold your deposit for ridiculous things, if the agent will not sit down and discuss reasonably your concerns, then you are really looking at a Small Claims action.

Finally, if you move into new rented property, do the same in reverse - try and go round with the agent and list any damage, (stained sofas, dodgy doors, cr�ppy carpets etc) that were in that condition before you moved in. Make them sign a copy and keep in a safe place. Good Luck !!

[theren_911]

I was stung recently to the tune of about �300.

I was billed for cleaning of a [20 year old] cooker, which was filthy when i moved in

Also billed for plastering of a hole in the wall where their curtain rail was hanging off the wall, as i was lazy and didn't note this on the itinery when i moved in.

Not taking into account I fixed their death trap light fittings, plug sockets and cooker point!

ALWAYS put everything in writing and get the landlord to either do the repairs or pay you to get them done.

I'm soo close to getting in my car, heading for leicester and beating the living $hit out of the landlord and estate agent!

 

Best of luck getting your money back, try consumer Direct, they are pretty good