The tenancy agreement should state the deposit amount, what it secures and how deductions or return are handled at the end of the tenancy.
What should you check?
Keep payment records, document the property's condition and distinguish fair wear and tear from tenant-caused damage.
Common mistake
A deposit is not automatically the final month's rent unless the landlord agrees and the tenancy terms allow it.
What should you do next?
Read the exact wording in your signed tenancy agreement and keep the relevant messages, receipts, photos or documents. If both parties agree to vary something, record the agreement clearly in writing.
How much deposit is typical?
One month of rent per year of tenancy is a common market convention, not a universal legal requirement. Check the amount agreed in the tenancy agreement.
When is the deposit refunded?
Read the signed tenancy agreement for the return deadline and deductions allowed. There is no single refund deadline that automatically applies to every private residential tenancy. Agree on outstanding bills and handover items in writing.
What deductions are reasonable?
Unpaid rent, agreed cleaning obligations, missing items or tenant-responsible damage may be relevant, depending on the agreement. Normal wear and tear should not automatically be charged as damage. Compare check-in and check-out photographs.
Example: an appliance breaks
If an older dishwasher fails, do not assume the tenant must pay for a brand-new replacement. Consider its age, prior faults, the cause of failure, repair quotations and the tenancy clauses before discussing any deduction.
If landlord and tenant disagree
Request an itemised breakdown, photographs, receipts or quotations and the relevant tenancy clauses. Reply with your own records and consider mediation or an appropriate dispute-resolution route if needed.
For a more detailed checklist, read our rental deposit dispute guide and handover inventory checklist.
This guide provides general information and is not legal advice. Contract terms and individual circumstances vary.