7 Smart Ways to Get Your Full Tenancy Deposit Back
Moving out? If you’re a tenant coming to the end of your lease, getting your full deposit back might feel like a mystery — but it doesn’t have to be.
At Let Me Manchester, we want your exit to be as smooth as your move-in. Here’s your go-to guide to ensure your deposit comes back in full, drama-free.
📋 1. Revisit Your Inventory Report
When you moved in, you should have received an inventory and condition report. This is your bible — check it carefully.
- Look at what was noted: scuffs, stains, appliance conditions
- Put everything back to how it was (within reason)
- If anything was broken, be honest and deal with it upfront
The deposit scheme will refer to this document when deciding any deductions, so make sure your exit matches your entry.
🧽 2. Clean Like You Mean It
A big chunk of deductions come from cleaning costs. So:
- Deep clean the kitchen, especially the oven and fridge
- Wipe down skirting boards, windowsills, and light switches
- Tackle the bathroom — mould, limescale, and tiles
- Don’t forget inside cupboards, behind furniture, and the floors
- Clean carpets and mattresses — these are commonly overlooked and often lead to deductions. A small bottle carpet/upholstery cleaner with a scrubber top (around £5 from Tesco) can work wonders and save you a lot in the long run.
📌 Top Tip: If you’re not confident, hire a professional cleaner and keep the receipt.
🧰 3. Fix the Little Things
Small damages can cost you more than you think:
- Fill small picture hook holes and touch up scuffs (with matching paint!)
- Replace any missing light bulbs or batteries in remotes/smoke alarms
- If furniture was provided, make sure it’s back in the same spot
It’s not about perfection — it’s about respect and responsibility.
🗑️ 4. Remove Rubbish (All of It!)
Don’t leave anything behind — not your mattress, not your half-used shampoo, and definitely not your broken chair from IKEA.
- Clear out fridge and freezer contents
- Empty bins (yes, even the outside ones)
- Take unwanted furniture to the tip or a donation centre
Leaving junk behind = cleaning + removal costs deducted from your deposit.
🪟 5. Report Issues Before You Leave
If something big breaks (boiler, leaks, appliances), report it before moving out.
- Being upfront helps you avoid suspicion
- Hidden damage found after you leave can delay or reduce your deposit return
Landlords appreciate honesty and communication — it’s better than silence.
📸 6. Take Photos When You Leave
Once you’ve cleaned, cleared, and checked everything:
- Take time-stamped photos of each room
- Include close-ups of any damage that was already there
- Keep these as proof in case there’s a dispute
This could save your deposit — or win your case if a deduction is unfair.
⏳ 7. Give Proper Notice & Return Keys
Make sure you:
- Give the correct notice period in writing
- Return all sets of keys (including spare ones!)
Missing keys = locksmith charges. Nobody wants that.
✅ In Summary: Be Proactive, Polite, and Prepared
Getting your full deposit back isn’t about luck — it’s about:
- Respecting the property
- Leaving it how you found it
- Communicating with your agent or landlord
Need help or have questions? Let Me Manchester is here to guide tenants through every step of the process.
#TenancyTips #DepositBack #LetMeManchester #MovingOutChecklist #TenantAdvice