Deposits

You will normally be required to pay a deposit to the Landlord as security in case you damage the property or furnishings.

It can also be used to cover unpaid bills, rent or missing items.

Most landlords will ask for a sum equivalent to four weeks' or a calendar month's rent but the maximum a landlord can charge by law is a sixth of the annual rent payable.

The deposit should be refunded normally within 28 days after you have vacated the property, provided there are no problems with the condition of the house.

In order to ensure that you get your deposit back:

• Ensure that you have a written statement from the landlord explaining what is covered by the deposit. If the landlord gives a verbal explanation, write to him/her to confirm the details
• Ensure that you have a receipt for monies paid
• Ensure that you have a full inventory of furniture and get the landlord to sign it. You may wish to take photographs
• Take reasonable care of the house and furniture during the tenancy
• Towards the end of your tenancy write to the landlord inviting him/her to inspect the property
• Settle all the bills
• When you leave return all the keys to the landlord and make a written request for the return of your deposit. Keep a copy of the letter.

Holding Deposits

It is usual to ask for a holding deposit which will form part of your normal deposit and may not be refundable if you withdraw before the contract beings.

Retainers

These are paid to the landlord by prospective tenants.

The retainer period forms part of the contract (typically July to August) when the student is unlikely to want to occupy and the landlord may wish to carry out certain maintenance works to the property.

The normal retainer payment is 50% of the per calendar month rent.

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