Leaving Accommodation
As you approach the end of your stay at your term-time Accommodation, it's crucial to start considering the process of collecting your tenancy deposit. This is relevant for those whose term-time accommodation is privately rented, as University-owned accommodations do not require deposits.
When you paid a deposit at the start of your tenancy your landlord should have confirmed receiving and protecting it with a government-approved deposit protection scheme. The approved schemes are:
The confirmation should have included information on how much you have paid and how to reclaim your deposit. Check the SU's housing pageLink opens in a new window for more details on what information you should have received. You can check if your tenancy deposit is protectedLink opens in a new window on Shelter England’s website. If you cannot find a deposit record, you should contact each scheme by email to check if your deposit is held with them.
Many tenancy protection agencies like TDS & DPS allow you to create an account on their app/ website to manage everything related to your deposit. At the end of your tenancy, you can log on to the app and request that the deposit repayment be paid to you. If there is no reason as stated in your contract why you shouldn't get your full deposit, you should request the total amount. If your landlord agrees to the requested amount, they must return your deposit within ten days.
However, your landlord could disagree with the amount you requested and propose deducting from your deposit if they think you have damaged anything on the property or have unpaid rent. They should tell you why they disagree and how much they'll deduct. If you disagree with the deductions, you can file a dispute with the deposit scheme protecting your deposit using their Alternative Dispute Resolution Scheme (ADR)Link opens in a new window. Be prepared to provide proof supporting why you disagree with the charges. That is why it is essential to take photos of the property before moving in and only sign an inventory if provided with one that accurately describes the condition of the accommodation.
If you are facing a situation where you need to raise a dispute regarding the return of your deposit, seek help from the SU Advice CentreLink opens in a new window. For more information, visit the Government's tenancy deposit webpageLink opens in a new window.
For further money-related support, contact Student Funding Support by email (studentfunding@warwick.ac.ukLink opens in a new window), phone (024 7615 0096), or come to the Wellbeing Reception in Senate House (10 am-3 pm Monday-Friday).
