Whether you've come to the end of a contract or leaving early, there are a few things you should do before you move out.

• Read the meters - Electricity and Gas. Inform the providers you want to close the accounts and pay the final bill.
• Make sure all rent is paid. (this may include the time that you are not there but you’re obliged to fulfil your contract)
• Make sure the property is clean! This always takes longer than you think so allow a couple of days.

Safeguarding your deposit

You have a responsibility to return the property in the same condition that it was let to you, allowing for wear and tear. So it’s a good idea to make sure that when you sign your agreement you:

• Take pictures of the rooms, any damage, wear & tear before you move in.
• Keep a detailed list of contents (furniture and fittings)
• Check the circumstances in which your landlord or agent could claim on your deposit.

What should you do if your landlord or agent hasn’t protected your deposit?

You can apply to your local county court; the court can then order your landlord or agent to either repay your deposit to you or put it into a protection scheme.

www.gov.uk/tenancy-deposit-protection

Deposit

• You should get your deposit back within 10 days after the end of tenancy if you and your landlord agree on how much should be paid back to you.
• The way this works if there is a disagreement depends on the type of scheme your landlord is using (make sure the landlord and the scheme have your correct details such as a forwarding address, email address and telephone number).
• 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 which were listed in the inventory.
• The landlord should not take money off the deposit to pay for wear and tear (damage that has taken place over time through normal use.)