to open a formal deposit dispute?

[MrsCK]

landlord is trying to claim £750 as two doors were scratched by our cat when we were living there. The doors are not damaged beyond repair but he wants to completely replace them and is only claiming for it because we initially disputed something else he wanted replaced. We are not disputing the damage merely the excessive cost and the fact he will benefit materially from it.

Yes to disputing it! Ours tried to claim the full deposit of £600 for this that and the other. We ended up with £570 back

Well if there is no condition on the inventory the deposit scheme may well award in your favour anyway.

If it was let through an agent, speak to them as they have a financial interest in minimising the number of disputes adjudicated on.

You however have nothing to lose and possibly everything to gain by disputing so if they aren't helpful, just go to dispute. This is what the legislation is for - to protect tenants, in the eyes of the scheme, the deposit monies are yours unless the ll can prove he has a valid claim.