What should I do before moving out to ensure I get my deposit back?

1. Understand Your Tenancy Agreement

Start by reviewing your tenancy agreement carefully. It outlines your expectations when vacating the property, including cleaning, repairs, and condition requirements.

• Cleaning clauses: Many agreements require the property to be returned in the same condition as it was at the start, allowing for fair wear and tear.
• Maintenance duties: You may be responsible for replacing lightbulbs, smoke alarm batteries, or fixing any tenant-caused damage.
• Garden care: If there's a garden, your agreement may include basic upkeep such as mowing the lawn or removing weeds.

2. Notify Your Landlord in Writing

Make sure you give the correct written notice as stated in your agreement - usually one month. This helps avoid confusion and confirms the end of your rental term.

3. Clean Thoroughly – Beyond the Surface

Clean every part of the property to a professional standard. This is the number one reason for deposit deductions. Be methodical - or consider hiring a professional cleaner if you're short on time or energy.

• Kitchen: Degrease the oven, hob, extractor fan and clean inside cupboards, fridge and freezer (defrost if necessary).
• Bathroom: Remove mould, limescale, and clean tile grout, sinks, toilet and bath thoroughly.
• Carpets: If they were professionally cleaned before you moved in, you may need to do the same.
• Windows: Wipe inside glass and sills – especially if they were clean at the start of your tenancy.
• Dust and wipe: Clean skirting boards, light switches, doors and behind furniture.

4. Repair Any Damage You Caused

You're not expected to fix normal wear and tear, like slightly faded paint or minor scuffs. But damage caused by accidents or neglect may result in deductions unless it is repaired.

• Fill in small holes from nails or wall hooks and repaint if necessary.
• Replace any broken lightbulbs, door handles or furniture (if provided).
• Patch up chipped paintwork or scratched woodwork where practical.

5. Take Photos and Videos

Document the condition of the property just before you leave. Use time-stamped photos and videos to record each room, including any existing damage and cleaned areas.

This will be vital evidence if there's a dispute with your landlord over deductions.

6. Check the Inventory Report

Compare the property's current condition to the original inventory you were given when you moved in. This helps you spot anything missing or out of place before your landlord does.

• Ensure all furnishings are returned to their original location.
• Report any issues before you move in - ideally with photo evidence.

7. Redirect Post and Take Final Meter Readings

Make sure you:

• Redirect mail using Royal Mail's forwarding service.
• Take final gas, electricity and water readings - and submit them to your suppliers.
• Provide proof to your landlord or letting agent that accounts have been settled.

8. Return All Keys

Return every set of keys – including window locks, post box, gate or garage keys. Failing to do this may lead to charges for lock replacement.

9. Be Present for the Final Inspection

Ask to attend the final inspection with the landlord or agent. This allows you to explain anything and resolve small issues on the spot.

If you can't attend, ask for a copy of the inspection report and respond quickly if there are any concerns.

10. What If There's a Dispute?

If your landlord proposes deductions that you believe are unfair, you can dispute them through the deposit protection scheme your deposit is held in.

• Deposit schemes: In England and Wales, landlords must protect deposits in a government-backed scheme such as DPS, MyDeposits or TDS.
• Free adjudication: If you can't agree on deductions, you can request a free independent review.
• Evidence is key: Provide your inventory, cleaning receipts, photographs and any communications to support your case.

Getting your full deposit back isn't just about how you leave the property - it's about preparation and clear communication. If you clean thoroughly, repair minor damage, follow the agreement, and document everything, you'll stand a much better chance of receiving your full deposit without dispute.

It's your money, so take extra time and care to protect it.