my|deposits has released a step-by-step checklist for landlords and letting agents to help them in any dispute with their tenant over the return of the deposit.

The checklist gives guidance to landlords and agents on what to do before, during and at the end of the tenancy to ensure they have the right evidence if a dispute arises.

While formal disputes are relatively rare, they are usually caused by issues such as cleaning charges, unpaid rent and damage to the property or its contents. By following the checklist, landlords will be armed with the best evidence possible if they face a dispute over the deposit return.

Eddie Hooker, Chief Executive, my|deposits, said: “This checklist covers everything a landlord needs to do, from a robust tenancy agreement, inventory reports, keeping a record of rent payments and doing check-in and check-out reports.

“Landlords and agents should remember that the deposit is always the tenant’s money, and if they wish to withhold any of it for cleaning or unpaid rent, then they must provide evidence of this.

“By following the checklist, landlords will ensure they have this evidence and aren’t losing any disputes unnecessarily.”