Many students living in the private rented sector have faced difficulties reclaiming their deposits at the end of their tenancies. This leaflet explains what deposits are and gives advice to help you avoid problems at the end of your tenancy. When you rent a house in the private sector, you will be asked to pay a deposit. By law a householder can charge no more than one sixth of the annual rent.
Most householders request the equivalent of one month's rent.
Deposits are levied by householders to indemnify themselves against unreasonable acts of wasteage or damage by tenants. Landlords should only use deposits to cover expenses arising out of tenant abuse. Occasionally householders will try to deduct money or fail to reimburse deposits for no good reason. The most effective way to protect yourself from unreasonable deductions is to follow the few simple procedures set out below. What to do when your Landlord requests a deposit This checklist will protect your deposit and ensure maximum refund.