I could really do with some advice with what to do next, and maybe a template letter or ideas of what to include if thats what I need to do.
I rented a property for over a year. It was all through a letting agency. I did meet the LL but have no contact details whatsoever for them.
The deposit was £350. I was receiving HB for the full rent so the rent was always paid on time.
I phoned on 11th June to give my months notice as I was moving in with DP. The said they required it in writing but would take that date as the start of the notice period.
On the 12th June they erected a To Let sign on the front of the house.
On the 13th June I handed in my written notice.
On 22nd June DP was at the house giving it a final clean and taking the last bits n bobs out when the owner of the agency arrived. He asked DP "Where is she? Why isnt she here?" and DP explained I was pregnant and not well therefore he was cleaning the house. The guy handed him a written note which said they needed me to contact them to arrange viewings. (They have my phone number so all this was strange)
As it was late on friday I didnt get round to phoning them.
On the 25th June they contacted my mum (who was guarantor) and told her they needed to speak to me urgently. Again, not sure why they couldnt phone me.
I went in to their offices that day and gave them the keys back. Checked they had the correct number etc. The girl told me that once the LL checked the property they would return my deposit. And that if they found someone before the end of the tenancy (11th July) they would end my tenancy early and cancel the HB claim.
New tenants moved into the property on 1st July (I have relatives living next door) and the LL did not report back any damage.
When I phoned about my deposit I was told I needed to speak to the agency owner. He is never available when I call and wont return my messages. When I brought this up I was told they have 14days.
Its now well over 14 days from any date I can see the 14 days starting from. I had a solicitors letter sent which was ignored. But I cant afford to get the solicitor to do anymore.
Whats my next move? Small claims? Do I send a letter? I really need the £350 or I would just walk away. I also dont see why they should get away with this.