Landlords claiming part of deposit

[c00ky83]

My old landlord has just returned my deposit (after many reminders) but has deducted a whopping �200 for cleaning and �75 for a carpet. He acknowledged that one carpet was in poor condition and would be replaced, but has charged for another carpet which was always in equally poor condition. I think at the very least we should see the cleaning bill itemised, and I'd also like to question the carpet bill.

Any experiences of this? Do we have any legal rights here? Thanks in advance.

[flyciderman]

Did you agree an inventory before you moved in? This should have recorded any defects.

If you did not you have a problem, however I would demand to see the bill.
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[noxlumos]

And that my dear is why you never pay the last months rent.... because you never get your deposit back.

[johnny37]

I have often paid deposits for my kids and never got it back. You cant even clean the place yourself because the contract oftens says 'must be professionally cleaned at end of tenancy'. One son refused to have the flat decorated when moving in so that the landlords could not claim for renovations at the end of the tenancy. I have heard of people going to the small claims court.

[flyciderman]

Take photos of the property and give one set to the landlord, get him to agree that they represent the condition of the property. Take positive action at the start and the landlord will be aware that you are not to be messed with. If the lease requires you to have the property cleaned at the end ask the landlord for proof that it was cleaned before you move in.

[furrycheeky]

I am with flyciderman, I was taught to always create a portfolio of the house. All rooms conditions/faults noted and lots of photos. Create 2 sets and let the landlord know you are going to have a set held safe and have him sign the fact that everything is as described. Never had any trouble at the end of the agreement.