This information applies to Scotland

You paid a deposit to your landlord when you moved into your flat and now s/he will not return it. When the tenancy ends, the landlord or letting agency should inspect the property. S/he can make deductions if there has been any damage to the flat or the furniture, or for rent arrears, outstanding utility bills or missing items. Deductions should not be made for reasonable wear and tear.

If your landlord will not return your deposit or you disagree with how much he has deducted, you should negotiate. If this fails, then you could consider taking court action against your landlord. Your CAB may be able to help. To search for details of your nearest CAB, including those that give advice by email, click on nearest CAB.

For more information on deposits, see Finding accommodation.
For more information on court action, see What is a small claim.
For general information for tenants with problems, see Common problems with renting.

Other Frequently asked questions about home and neighbourhood:

• I own my home but have fallen behind with my mortgage payments. I’ve heard about mortgage rescue schemes: what are they?
• I have received a claim for possession from the Sheriff Court because I have not paid my rent. What can I do?
• I had to leave my last home and now I have nowhere to live. Do the local council have to re-house me?
• I have been on the waiting list for a council house for ages. What can I do to speed things up?
• The house I rent is very damp. I told the landlord but she has not done anything about it. What else can I do?
• I rent my flat privately and the landlord wants to increase the rent. Can he do this?
• I want to take out a mortgage to buy a house. What do I need to know?
• What can I do about a mortgage endowment shortfall?
• I own my home but have fallen behind with my mortgage payments. I've heard about companies that offer sale and rent back schemes