Is this normal practice?

[Cetti]

My son starts work on Wednesday contracting and has just found a place to stay. He will have his own room, but the landlady has asked for �200 security deposit, plus the weekly rental. Can anyone please tell me if this if the way of things now, or is this a con? Thank you for any help.

[alijangra]

Most places ask for a months rent as deposit and the first months rent upfront so he is actually lucky he is not paying the full month upfront. The deposit will be refundable if he looks after his room. Just make sure he has a proper contract.

[Gef]

Standard practce. He will get it back when he leaves assuming no rent arrears, damage etc.

[Gef]

Ali types faster than me!

[Cetti]

Thank you both, that's put my mind at rest.

He's only up in London for 5 nights, so the rent is on a weekly basis - it was the �200 I was a bit concerned about.

[smiffy65]

just a thought after seeing your question, once you have put a bond down and you stay long term and when you eventually leave owing no rent and no damage do you get interest on the money they have been holding?,if not, just think of all the interest that must have accummalated over the years especially if the landlord has a lot of lettings