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Deposit Guideline Legal Reference
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When Should a Deposit Be Returned?

How landlords should assess and return a deposit after the tenant vacates.

10 Jul 20266 min readReviewed 10 Jul 2026
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The deposit should be assessed promptly after the tenancy ends, keys are returned and the property can be inspected.

Compare the final condition with the signed inventory, allowing for normal wear and tear.

Confirm whether rent, utilities or other agreed charges remain outstanding.

Any deduction should be reasonable, linked to an actual obligation and supported by photographs, invoices, estimates or account records.

The landlord should give the tenant a written breakdown rather than withholding an unexplained lump sum.

Return the undisputed balance through a traceable payment method.

If the parties cannot agree, preserve all evidence and use the appropriate dispute process.

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