Negotiation is key
You should always start negotiating at the earliest opportunity after the tenancy ends and the check-out report is available
You should always start negotiating at the earliest opportunity after the tenancy ends and the check-out report is available. Negotiation can also be effective during the tenancy when an issue occurs that needs resolving.
Even when a tenant disagrees with a proposed settlement and the resolution process has started, it is never too late to negotiate. To be the most effective:
It is never too late to negotiate, but
the best way to negotiate is face-to-face
allow the tenant to have their say and show that you have listened and considered their reasons
be open and honest with your reasoning and see if there is room on either side for any concession
remember your claim must be on a like-for-like basis, having considered reasonable wear and tear, and not betterment
More advice on negotiation techniques can be found here.
An experienced adjudicator will consider the information and evidence provided by both parties to reach a reasoned and impartial decision on the return of the deposit. This may include:
Negotiation between you and the tenant was unsuccessful
Situations where either the landlord or tenant does not communicate or is uncontactable
scenarios where the relationship between the tenant and landlord has broken down and negotiation is not an option
