Skip navigation | Skip to footer
Why is this important?

The information we provide differs between countries. To get information for your country, please select from the dropdown.

I paid a deposit when I moved into my rented house. I have now moved out but the landlord will not return the deposit. What can I do?

This information applies to Northern Ireland

Most landlords and letting agents ask tenants for a deposit as security against damage or non-payment of rent. It is reasonable for your landlord to take money off the deposit to cover, for example, damage to the property or furniture, or missing items. But they should return the rest of your deposit, once things like these have been taken into account.

At the end of the tenancy, you should get your deposit back after your landlord has inspected the property and as long as you and your landlord have agreed on how much you should get back.

If you don't agree on how much you should get back or if you paid a deposit and your landlord won't pay it back, see if you can come to an agreement with them. You can get help to do this from an experienced adviser, for example at a Citizens Advice Bureau.

If that doesn't work, your only option is to take your landlord to the small claims court. If you're in this position, you should get advice.

To search for details of your nearest CAB, including those that can give advice by e-mail, click on nearest CAB.

For more information on taking court action, see Small claims.

Other Housing FAQs:

A to Z Index