We recently provided details of data released by DPS on common reasons for deposit deductions. Now, it’s the turn of landlords of student property to speak out. They want to help you ensure you get your deposit back with minimum stress and hassle to either party when you move out.
If a Breakage Wasn’t You, Prove It
The best way you can do this is to document everything when you move in. Landlords aren’t infallible and if they don’t know about damage of the previous students, you will get the blame for it. Spotted problems should have been raised at the beginning of the tenancy. If your landlord gives you an inventory, make sure it all tallies up. If he/she knows about damage, this should already be highlighted.
Replace Broken Items
It’s not that difficult to replace most items that will be provided for you such as mugs and plates. The landlord will deduct for these minor breakages even if they are small and inexpensive. The items that you use as part of your furnished accommodation were used by previous students and will be used by subsequent students. Replacing them is the best policy, as is honesty about breakages. If you didn’t break it, the person who did should make sure it’s replaced.
Request Inspections
This is about being proactive rather than reactive. Some property owners are hands off and will only carry out an inspection once you’ve moved. It’s the middle of November and the first time of the academic year is about to end. Now is a good time to invite them to visit to inspect the property. They can let you know of any problems and request that you correct them. Do so again a few weeks before you are due to move out so you can avoid issues after moving out.
Keep on Top of Bills
You and your fellow housemates are responsible for all bills while you are living there so it is best not to run into arrears. Unpaid bills will be deducted from the deposit. To avoid the hassle of not getting back all your deposit because of unpaid bills, keep up to date, set up a direct debit, and you won’t need to worry about losing a single penny. Unpaid rent and bills are one of the major reasons for deposits being stopped.
Deep Clean
Some landlords might specify hiring professional cleaners although this is rare for student tenants. What they will expect is a property that is as clean at move out as it is at moving in. That means taking a day or more if required to clean the property with a particular focus on the kitchen and the bathroom.