Problems with getting our full deposit back

[topocco]

Hello - we have recently moved house and are experiencing problems with our lettings agency.

The house was inspected by a member from the Letting's agency, and it was agreed we would get our full depsoit back.

We have since had a phonecall stating various problems within the house and will therfore not obtain the full deposit. These problems were originally noted on the inventory list from the previous tenants, which left the letting agency 'to get back to us, once they had confirmed this'. The other issue was the rubbish left outside the property.... we made various trips to the large skip to dispose all rubbish, needless to say they 'would get back to us' once again. As of today, they have agreed to drop various issues, but will charge us for the lounge suit & a day's extra rent due to the keys being handed back on a Monday - instead of Saturday (although we had to be out of the house midnight...so cant see how we can get the keys to them at that time?!)

My frustration lies with the agency firstly telling us we can get our full deposit back, then changing thier mind. Secondly, accusing us of damage which had already been noted in the inventory list - showing their lack of proper research. Thirdly, being charged a ridiculous amount for the wear-and-tear of a lounge suit being used by 6 tenants for over 1.5yrs. We can't say much about the charge for the keys not being sent back, i suppose one set could have been kept while the rest were returned....but i feel as though this has been gone about in a total unprofessional way and we're been taken for a ride, not to mention being treated in such a rude tone.

I would like to write a letter of complaint, but need some guidance on the correct way to do this. Please can you let me know if i'm entitled to do so, or is this the case with most letting agencies.

Many thanks if you can,

T

[J Stephens]

Try www.clsdirect.org.uk My friend had horrendous problems getting repairs done. She ended up sort of winning in the end and got her deposit. My advice is not to let the Agent/Landlord tell you whats right or wrong, but to know where you stand legally then throw it at them.  We got all the legal info we could find but unfortunately other than the Citizens Advice Bureau I can't remember where else it came from.  You can get advice from a solicitor for a small fee (about�5-�10). That was the best thing she did.  Good luck. Jinny

[topocco]

Many Thanks Jinny - i will have a look at the sight.

Been very difficult sorting this whole thing out. The agency seem to be one up on everything we have to argue with. If they can get some money - they will! I will hopefully find out this week what the outcome is, all i want is for to to be over and dealt with.

Cheers again

T