Whether you’re renting your first property or are a seasoned renter our top tips will help you make sure that you get the deposit you’re entitled to back.
Take photographs of the property
When you get the property keys we recommend that you take lots of photographs of the property, this is your insurance policy in case you are accused of damage that was not caused by you. We recommend that you not only keep the photographs on file but send these to your landlord when you first move in.
Ensure your deposit is paid into a tenancy deposit scheme
In Scotland there are three tenancy deposit schemes, these are third parties that protect renters’ deposits until these are due to be repaid. These are:
- Letting Protection Service Scotland
- Safedeposits Scotland
- My|deposits Scotland
Landlords are legally required to pay deposits into an approved tenancy deposit scheme and provide you with key information on your tenancy and deposit.
Your landlord will not need to pay your deposit into a registered tenancy deposit scheme if:
- The landlord is a family member
- You have agreed a life rent
- The property is a holiday home
- The property is used by religious organisations
- The property is classed as supported accommodation
- The property is subject to control orders
- The tenancy is agricultural and crofting
- The landlord is a resident
- The owner of the property changes hands i.e. if a property is repossessed
Make sure you have a detailed inventory
Your landlord should give you a detailed inventory when you move in, if you are not given this you should request it or make your own. The inventory should detail the contents of the property and the condition of all items. You should double check the inventory given to you by your landlord or agree the inventory that you have put together with them – this will help ensure that you are not charged for items that were not in the property when you moved in. Both you and the landlord should sign a copy of the inventory.
Remember that you should not be charged for wear and tear
Reasonable wear and tear should be expected by landlords, remember that you should only be charged for items that need to be replaced or repaired due to damage that you have caused. There is no precise description of reasonable wear and tear however if you feel that you are being treated unfairly your tenancy deposit scheme will provide a free to access dispute resolution service. An independent adjudicator, appointed by the tenancy deposit scheme, will decide on the amount of the deposit that should be allocated to the landlord and the tenant.
We hope these tips are helpful to you – happy renting : )