Safety, Repairs &
Your Deposit
Living in a rented home means knowing where your responsibilities end and your landlord's begin. Protect yourself from unfair charges and unsafe living conditions.
During Your Tenancy: Who Pays for What?
Both you and your landlord have distinct legal responsibilities to keep the property safe.
What They Must Fix
- ✓ Structure & Exterior: Walls, roof, windows, and external doors.
- ✓ Utilities: Supply of water, gas, electricity, pipes, drains, and sanitary fittings (sinks, baths, toilets).
- ✓ Heating & Hot Water: Maintenance of boilers and space heating systems.
- ✓ Safety Checks: Routine gas safety checks, electrical safety, and providing working smoke/carbon monoxide alarms.
At the End of Your Tenancy: Deposit Deductions
When you move out, your landlord must return your deposit within 10 days of agreeing on the final amount. Deductions must be fair, reasonable, and backed by evidence.
Valid Deductions
- Unpaid rent (arrears)
- Replacing broken or missing items
- Fixing damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning (only to return the property to the original check-in standard)
Unfair Deductions (Challenge These)
- Fair Wear and Tear: Gradual deterioration from everyday living (e.g., worn carpet, scuffed skirting boards).
- Professional Cleaning Fees: Banned under the Tenant Fees Act.
- Betterment: You don't have to leave the home in a better condition than when you moved in.
Disputing Unfair Charges
If your landlord attempts to make unfair deductions, you do not have to accept them. If your deposit is in a government-approved scheme, refer the issue to their free dispute resolution mechanism. The contested amount remains protected during the dispute.