To dispute this cleaning cost

[PookieDo]

I have left rented accommodation and we are at the point of quibbling the deposit

I had lived there for nearly 10 years and initially they asked for 50% of redecorating costs and I said no, I will not pay this and unreasonable to ask as it’s wear and tear. I filled in all small holes or knocks but during my tenancy nothing was upgraded by them and no discussion as to whether I should be doing my own redecorating, and it wasn’t at all clean when I moved in. There is no inventory. I tried to clean the windows but it’s not on the ground floor and next to a busy road (so all the external windows and frames in all the properties they own are really dirty). Before AND after I moved out I cleaned every skirting board and door with sugar soap. I touched up all the grouting too.

I cleaned the property myself when I left including renting a carpet cleaner.

I got an email from LL the next day saying that property was very clean and in good condition, but needed some painting done. They conceded they would not charge me for the redecoration.

I’ve since had another email a week later saying on closer inspection it’s really dirty and dusty on skirting boards and windows and they want £100 for cleaning costs, seen as I haven’t had to pay for the paint. This doesn’t include the kitchen or bathroom or carpets because they are ok.

I have gone back to say £100 for dusting and cleaning skirting boards is really OTT and I will go back to do it myself. AIBU? What is normal in this situation? I feel like I AM paying for the paint, just in another way!

This is the £400 fee I imagine - likely what these costs are for

I’m going to pay off the fees only then be done with it

Please can I have CF landlord award?

She’s back! With more costs! Now my drains are all ‘filthy’ and she wants £30!

I have politely told her she is unprofessional and to stop communicating with me I will raise a dispute on Friday with the deposit scheme

I don't think they can charge you rent until the Ned of the contract plus the relenting costs.
It's one or the other if you honour your contract and pay the rent and council tax due, the landlord is responsible for his usual reletting costs.

Without an inventory with dated photographs arbitration will rule in your favour.

When does your contract finish?

Sorry
End
And
Re-letting costs
Autocorrect,

Sorry just noticed the comment up thread regarding £400 break clause, looks like that is payable, I have never used a clause like that. I think the weeks rent and the £400 will be due I wouldn't pay anything else at this stage and as you have a break clause you will not need to pay council tax from the date you stopped paying rent,

She is being VILE to me. Really awful. I’ve stopped communicating with her after I told her it was unprofessional and I ‘no longer have trust in her professionalism’ and I would raise the dispute. She is now outraged it’s over £30! Well don’t be a vile cow and this won’t happen to you will it