Why do Landlords claim from a tenant’s deposit?
There are many reasons for a Landlord Deposit claim at the end of a tenancy. Where there is a deposit claim, statistics show landlords are most likely to seek deductions to cover the costs of cleaning the property when tenants move out.
Over the last year, 63% stated a claim was for cleaning. The top 5 common cleaning tasks stated are:
1. Ovens – are they free from debris?
2. Extractors – Have they been cleaned or had filters replaced?
3. Toilets – should be sparkling!
4. Kitchen sinks
5. Skirting boards & light switches
Most properties will have reasonable wear and tear over the course of a tenancy, however, that doesn’t include cleaning and a tenant should return the property in the same state of cleanliness it was presented.
How to claim from a tenant’s deposit?
To ensure you can prove a claim, its prudent to have a comprehensive inventory report & schedule of condition report done at the beginning of the tenancy. This should also include supporting photographs and signatures obtained from the tenants at check-in to show their agreement of the condition.
Other reasons Landlords often make a claim against the deposit include:
53% Damage to property contents
37% Redecoration
23% Rent Arrears
16% Gardening
16% Missing items
4% Outstanding bills
Using a Professional Inventory Company to deal with reports, check-in’s and check-out’s drastically reduces the risk of a dispute over the deposit when a tenant moves out.
Do I have to protect a tenant’s deposit in a scheme?
Deposit protection is mandatory and protects both parties. Any loss or damage during the tenancy must be reported to the Landlord or letting agent to minimise any loss of deposit and damage to the property.
For more information or advice on letting a property or deposit protection, contact PIIM at info@piim.co.uk
