Leaving accommodation – how to get your deposit back: A blog by Charlotte Flanagan, Student Money Assistant

Leaving student accommodation can be stressful, but one of the most important things to remember is making sure you get your deposit back. Many students rent privately off campus during their second and third years and knowing your rights and responsibilities can make a big difference when it’s time to move out.

When you pay a deposit at the start of your tenancy, your landlord is legally required to place it in a government-approved deposit protection scheme. These include the Deposit Protection Service (DPS), MyDeposits, or the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS). They must do this within 30 days of receiving the money and provide you with written confirmation. This confirmation explains where your deposit is being held and how you can get it back. If your landlord fails to do this, you may be entitled to compensation. It’s always worth checking your paperwork early on and seeking advice if you’re unsure. The Warwick Students’ Union Advice Centre is a great place to start for support and clarification.

Before you even move in, it’s a smart idea to document the condition of the property. Take detailed, time-stamped photos of every room, particularly carpets, walls, furniture, and appliances. Check the inventory list provided and don’t be afraid to challenge it if something doesn’t match what you see. Make sure any changes or discrepancies are acknowledged in writing by your landlord or letting agent. Having this record will be invaluable if there’s a dispute later.

Throughout your tenancy, keeping the place clean and reporting any issues quickly will help avoid potential problems. If something breaks or stops working, notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy of the communication. This shows that you’ve taken your responsibilities seriously and prevents damage from getting worse or being blamed on you later.

As your tenancy comes to an end, preparation is key. The property should be returned in the same condition you found it in, allowing for fair wear and tear. Deep clean every room, including bathrooms and kitchen appliances, and don’t forget often-overlooked spots like behind furniture or inside cupboards. Remove all your belongings and dispose of any rubbish properly. Leaving behind bags of rubbish or broken furniture could lead to deductions from your deposit. If your accommodation came with equipment, such as a hoover or internet router, these should be returned too. Make sure you return all keys and access cards on time, as delays here can also cost you.

Once you’ve moved out, contact your landlord or agent in writing to request the return of your deposit. If the deposit is protected under a government scheme, they are required to return it within 10 days, unless they wish to make deductions. If they do propose deductions, they must provide a clear breakdown of costs. If you disagree, communicate your concerns in writing and provide any evidence you have, such as photos or the original inventory. If the issue can’t be resolved, you can raise a dispute with the relevant deposit protection scheme, which will offer a free and impartial alternative dispute resolution (ADR) service.

Getting your deposit back doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does take some planning and attention to detail. Make use of the SU Advice Services and know your rights from the beginning. That way, when the time comes to move on from your accommodation, you can do so with your full deposit, and peace of mind.

For further money-related support, contact Student Funding Support by email (studentfunding@warwick.ac.uk), phone (024 7615 0096), or come to the Wellbeing Reception in Senate House (10 am-3 pm Monday-Friday).