Oooh poor you. We're tenants too and you do worry about the odd bad landlord. We had supper with friends recently, they had some other friends who were new 'landlords'. Honestly it was an eye opener. They seemed to be out for whatever they could get from their tenants deposit. I suspect this lady is just trying to make a bit of extra cash. Wear and tear is an accepted part of a tenancy as far as I'm aware, just as it would be if you lived in your own home. As long the place is left clean and tidy and the carpets cleaned, that should be fine. Deposits are supposed to cover any damage done to the property not covered by your insurance. I agree with the above, I'd call her bluff and take her to court, or at least pay a few quid for a solicitor's letter. I guess the lesson is to ask the landlord to sign a declaration when you show them 'round at the end of the tenancy otherwise it's your word against theirs if they decide to be difficult. I hope your new home is a nice one.