News
Tenancy deposit disputes reach new heights
Thursday 6th October 2016
The number of tenancy disputes has risen and a new record high was reached in the period March 2015 to March 2016, however still only represents a small percentage of all deposits, 0.82% to be exact. Figures released from the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) show that a total of 28,100 disputes between the three custodial schemes across England and Wales were resolved.
Following the mandatory implementation of deposit protection back in 2007, official figures show that there have been just under 173,000 tenancy deposit disputes adjudicated by the three protection schemes. With cleaning being the most frequent issue being raised, featuring in 57% of all claims.
With deposit disputes on the rise, it highlights the importance of having a detailed inventory and schedule of condition along with a complete check out report. By having this in place, it is easy to compare the condition and cleanliness of the property at the start of the tenancy and when it is returned to the landlord at the end. Protecting both the tenant and landlord from any false claims.
One of the scheme organisers cites damages to fixtures and fittings equate to a high proportion of disputes with 51% of claims, followed by redecoration at 32%, rent arrears at 19% and gardening at 16%.
In terms of dispute outcomes, according to the Tenancy Deposit Scheme around 17% of tenants receive the entire disputed amount compared with 21% for landlords. In 61% of cases the deposit is split with both parties.
As at 31st March 2016, the total amount protected across all three schemes was 3.42 million worth over £3.5 billion.