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Letter template · For renters in England

Request the return of my deposit

Ask for your deposit back at the end of the tenancy and request an itemised breakdown of any proposed deductions.

How to use it

  • Replace everything in [square brackets] with your details.
  • Read it through and adjust the wording to fit your situation.
  • Send it yourself, by email or post. TenantProof never contacts anyone on your behalf.
  • Keep the links to Shelter, Citizens Advice and GOV.UK at the bottom.

The letter

[Today's date]

Dear [Landlord / letting agent name],

Re: Return of my tenancy deposit, [Property address]

My tenancy at the above property has ended / is ending on [end date]. I paid a deposit of [deposit amount] at the start of the tenancy. Please could you confirm which government-approved scheme it is protected in and send me the certificate, as I do not have those details to hand.

I am writing to request the return of my deposit. If you intend to propose any deductions, please could you send me an itemised breakdown together with any supporting evidence, so that I can consider it. I would be grateful for your reply within a reasonable time, for example, within 10 working days.

My understanding is that where a deposit is protected in one of the government-approved schemes, that scheme offers a free dispute resolution service. Please could you confirm the position for my deposit, so that I know what options are open to me.

Thank you,

[Your name]
[Your forwarding address]

This letter is a template, not legal advice, and does not guarantee any outcome. You should read it, change it to fit your situation, and send it yourself. For free, qualified help: Shelter (https://www.shelter.org.uk), Citizens Advice (https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk), or GOV.UK (https://www.gov.uk/private-renting).

Save yourself the typing

Sign up free to keep a dated copy of this letter in your records, handy if it ever becomes part of your evidence. Having TenantProof fill it in from your tenancy (address, landlord or agent, dates, deposit) comes with the Dispute Pack.

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General information for private renters in England, last reviewed 31 August 2026. Not legal advice, the law and deadlines can change, so check the current position via GOV.UK or get advice from Shelter or Citizens Advice. See also Help & official routes.