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Property & Tenancy

Deposit Return Letter Template

At the end of a tenancy, the deposit must be returned promptly, with any deductions clearly justified. This letter sets out the figures and reasons transparently.

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What this deposit return letter covers

When you need a deposit return letter

The legal framework

Understanding the law behind a deposit return letter helps you use it well. Here is the key UK legislation that applies:

Housing Act 1988
Governs assured and assured shorthold tenancies in England, including the Section 8 possession grounds in Schedule 2.
Renters' Rights Act 2025
Reshaped private renting from 1 May 2026 — abolished Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, converted tenancies to rolling periodic tenancies, and revised the possession grounds.
Tenant Fees Act 2019
Restricts the fees and deposits landlords and agents can charge tenants.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly must a deposit be returned?

Deposit scheme rules generally require return within 10 days of agreeing the amount.

What if the tenant disputes deductions?

The tenant can use the deposit scheme's free dispute resolution service, where an adjudicator decides based on the evidence.

How Legal Lift helps

Answer a few plain-English questions and our AI generator produces a tailored deposit return letter, ready to edit, download as PDF or Word, and e-sign with LegalSign. Every template is kept current with UK law, and our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are available if you'd like it reviewed.

This page explains the law in general terms to help you understand your deposit return letter. It is information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific circumstances, our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are here to help.

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