How quickly should I get my deposit back?

Where the deposit is held in a protection scheme, the scheme sets the timescales and rules — check its guidance. This letter in any case sets a clear fourteen-day deadline.

What if the landlord does not reply?

This letter is a good first step and useful evidence later. If there is no reply, raise it with the deposit protection scheme if one holds the money, or take advice from Citizens Advice about a claim.

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Ask for your deposit back

Not getting your deposit back after the end of your tenancy? This letter formally requests the money and sets a deadline.

Your details

Full name Street and number

Postcode Town or city

Who are you writing to?

Name of the company or organisation Street and number

Postcode Town or city

Country

About your letter

Address of the rented property Date the tenancy ended Amount of the deposit (optional)As stated in your tenancy agreement.Bank details for the refund (optional)Account name, sort code and account number.

Preview of your letter

This is exactly what goes on paper.

Full name

Name of the company or organisation

25 July 2026

Re: Return of tenancy deposit

Dear Sir or Madam,

I ask you to refund the deposit within fourteen days of the date of this letter.

If you consider that you are entitled to deduct any costs from the deposit, please set out those costs in writing, itemised and with supporting evidence. If payment is not made, I reserve the right to take the matter further.

Yours faithfully,

Full name

Email address We send your confirmation here.Send by recorded deliveryRecommended for this letterWith proof of posting and proof of delivery.

What to look out for

A landlord can normally only deduct for damage or unpaid rent, not for fair wear and tear.
Do you have a check-out report or dated photographs from when you moved out? Keep them as evidence.
Your deposit may be held in a government-approved tenancy deposit protection scheme. If it is, that scheme usually offers a free dispute resolution service — ask the landlord or agent which scheme holds it.
Send by recorded delivery, so it is clear when your fourteen-day deadline started to run.

FAQ

How quickly should I get my deposit back?: Where the deposit is held in a protection scheme, the scheme sets the timescales and rules — check its guidance. This letter in any case sets a clear fourteen-day deadline.
What if the landlord does not reply?: This letter is a good first step and useful evidence later. If there is no reply, raise it with the deposit protection scheme if one holds the money, or take advice from Citizens Advice about a claim.

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