Cleaning is still the biggest cause of deposit disputes

Cleaning has once again been identified as the most common cause of a tenancy deposit dispute in the private rented property sector, according to new research.

Fresh data released by The Deposit Protection Service (The DPS) reveals that cleaning tops the list of reasons why a deduction was made to the tenancy deposit.

Over the past 12 months, 63% of landlords that entered The DPS’ Dispute Resolution Service cited cleaning amongst their reasons for a claim. 

Damage caused by tenants is the second most cause of disputes at 53%, followed by the need to redecorate at 37%, and rent arrears at the end of a tenancy at 23%.

Other costs cited by landlords include gardening (16%), replacing missing items (16%) and outstanding bills (4%).

Julian Foster, Managing Director at The DPS, said: “These statistics give an indication of the types of issues that landlords can face when tenants move out – and of the need for a system of tenancy deposits to protect both parties.

“Many of the problems that lead to deductions can be avoided when both tenant and landlord are aware of their responsibilities and stay in regular communication throughout the tenancy.

“Around 98% of tenancies end without any dispute between landlord and tenant over the deposit, but in the rare occasions they cannot agree, access to a free, impartial dispute resolution process helps ensure that everyone is treated fairly.”

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