Getting your rental deposit back

A deposit covers real damage and unpaid bills, not ordinary wear. Once the tenancy ends and you have met your obligations it should come back promptly, and a landlord who keeps part of it needs a reason they can show you.

What a landlord may deduct

Deductions have to match an actual, documented loss: unpaid rent, unpaid utility or municipal bills, or repair of damage beyond normal use. Faded paint, small nail holes and worn flooring after years of living somewhere are wear, not damage. Ask for the invoice or quote behind any figure withheld. A round number with no paperwork behind it is usually an opening position rather than a claim.

Prove the condition you left it in

Photograph and film every room on the day you hand back the keys, meters included, with the date visible. Do the same with the move-in inventory if you have one. Send the final meter readings to the landlord in writing that day and keep the message. Most deposit disputes turn on whether anyone can actually show what the flat looked like.

Asking for it back

Start with a dated written request that gives a short, specific deadline and includes your bank details, so there is no excuse about not knowing where to send it. If that is ignored, a demand letter naming the amount and the evidence is the next step, and small claims handles disputes of this size. Keep everything in writing from the first message.

FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return it?
The lease usually sets a period; where it does not, the deposit should come back within a reasonable time once bills are settled. Put a specific date in your written request rather than waiting.
The landlord says the flat needs repainting.
Repainting after ordinary use is generally the owner's cost, not damage. Ask which surface, what it cost, and to see the invoice.
Can they keep it for unpaid bills?
Yes, for bills you genuinely owe and that can be shown. Send final meter readings and close accounts in your own name so nothing is left to point at.
Is this worth a small claim?
Deposits sit squarely in the range small claims was built for, and you can file without a lawyer. A clear photo record usually matters more than legal argument.