Moving out of a rented room: a checklist to protect your deposit
Most deposit disagreements come down to notice, condition and evidence. A little care in your last week makes them easier to settle. This guide is for England.
Before you give notice
Check your agreement and the current rules on how much notice you must give and in what form. See our guide on notice to leave a room. Give notice in writing and keep a copy or the message.
In your last week
- Clean the room and your share of kitchen and bathroom, and remove all your belongings and food.
- Compare with move-in: look at your move-in photos or inventory. See the first-week moving-in checklist.
- Take dated photos of every part of the room once cleaned, including the inside of wardrobes and any existing marks.
- Report any damage honestly and early. Fair wear and tear is not the same as damage.
- Return all keys and get a message confirming the date you handed them back.
Money and admin
- Pay rent due up to the end date, and ask for a final statement of what has been paid.
- Give a forwarding address and bank details for the deposit, and set up mail forwarding.
- Tell your bank, employer and other accounts your new address.
If there are deductions
A landlord needs to explain any deduction from a protected deposit. If you disagree, the deposit scheme named in your paperwork offers free dispute resolution; GOV.UK explains the process. Our deposit rules guide covers the cap, protection and getting it back.
Sharing with others? See living with housemates.
This is general information for England, not legal advice. Looking for your next room? See how renting with us works.