Old landlord holding money

[GroupieGirl]

I recently moved from one rented property to another and in the confusion managed to forget to cancel the standing order for the rent on the first property.

Now the lanlord seems to be refusing to give it back unless I agree to release the deposit without anything in writing regarding how much he wants to deduct. This smacks of blackmail a little but wondered what the legal vipers thought...and yes, before you say it, I know I was a dick not to cancel the SO!

Is the deposit with the protection company? If so, it might be worth seeing what they have to say.

1. Legally the deposit should have been placed in a deposit scheme, assuming you started the tenancy after April 2007, and he should have given you details of the scheme. They will arbitrate should any deductions be made that you feel are unfair. He has 30 days to return your deposit after the end of the tenancy.

1. if the deposit was not placed in such a scheme and/or you were not given details, that's now illegal. You can apply to the county court and they can order him to pay up to 3x the value of the deposit to you. See www.gov.uk/tenancy-deposit-protection/overview for more details

1. If you forgot to cancel the SO, he should return this money immediately. I would suggest writing to him by recorded delivery asking for the money to be refunded within 7 working days or you will be applying to the small claims court for judgement.

1. don't stress, the law is on your side.

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