Renting A Home

Moving out of your house

When you get to the end of your contract, it’s important that you take a few steps to ensure you get your deposit back.

By Sarah Wayman

Ensure you have fulfilled the requirements of your contract. For example if you have a specific end date on your contract, have you confirmed with your landlord that you will not be re-signing? If you having a ‘rolling’ contract, have you or the landlord given the agreed notice period? Have you paid all your rent?
Leave the property as you found it. Have you made sure you have left the house clean and tidy and things in working order? Obviously some things will be subject to wear and tear, which is understandable, but make sure that as far as possible you leave the property as you found it.
Take photos of the property when you leave as proof of how you left it. Look at your photos from the beginning of your tenancy and cross reference.
Think about what waste you’re leaving, and donate and recycle what you can. There may be special refuse collection or recycling services put on to assist in these periods when lots of students may be moving to a different house. Check with your local authority or students’ union for more information.