If your landlord or letting agent hasn’t protected your deposit, you can still claim it back and may even be entitled to compensation.
Even if you’re being evicted with a Section 21 notice, you are still entitled to your deposit if it wasn’t properly protected or was protected late. Landlords and agents cannot legally evict you under Section 21 if they haven't provided you with 'prescribed information,' which includes details about the property and the deposit.
Once you've paid your deposit, your landlord or agent must return it unless there is a valid reason, such as property damage. At the end of your tenancy, contact your landlord or agent via email to request the return of your deposit, as this creates a written record. Typically, you should receive your deposit within two weeks.
Before moving out, take photos and videos of the property to document its condition, which will help you get most of your deposit back. You can also request a check-out inventory and have the landlord or agent sign it. If you owe rent, the landlord or agent may deduct part or all of the deposit, but they must explain the reason for the deductions in writing.
Landlords or agents cannot deduct money for normal wear and tear, as things naturally deteriorate over time. They also cannot charge you for damage caused by their failure to carry out repairs after you reported an issue. If your deposit was paid by the local council, you might not receive it back, especially if it was secured through a bond scheme.
Always ask your landlord or agent to explain any deductions and how they were calculated. You can even request a quote for repairs or replacements if needed.