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What Happens When I Leave?
Every tenancy eventually comes to an end, whether you’re moving to a new home, buying your first property or relocating for work.
Knowing what to expect before you move out can help make the process straightforward and improve the chances of receiving your tenancy deposit back promptly.
At Yes Properties, we’ll guide you through every stage of the check-out process.
Giving Notice
If you intend to leave your property, you’ll usually need to give notice in accordance with your tenancy agreement.
The amount of notice required will depend on:
- Your tenancy agreement.
- Whether your tenancy is fixed-term or periodic.
- Any agreement reached with your landlord.
If you’re unsure how much notice you need to give, please contact us before making arrangements to move.
Before You Move Out
Before leaving the property, we recommend that you:
- Remove all personal belongings.
- Dispose of any rubbish responsibly.
- Clean the property thoroughly.
- Empty cupboards and storage areas.
- Defrost and clean appliances where applicable.
- Replace any items you are responsible for under the tenancy agreement.
- Ensure all sets of keys are ready to be returned.
The Check-Out Inspection
A check-out inspection is usually carried out after you vacate the property.
During the inspection, the property’s condition will normally be compared with the original inventory and schedule of condition, taking into account fair wear and tear.
The inspection may include:
- Cleanliness.
- General condition.
- Fixtures and fittings.
- Appliances supplied with the property.
- Gardens or outside areas (where applicable).
- Meter readings.
Returning the Keys
All keys, fobs, parking permits and access devices supplied at the start of your tenancy should be returned on or before the agreed check-out date, unless alternative arrangements have been agreed.
Failure to return keys promptly could result in additional costs if this delays the landlord’s ability to regain possession of the property.
Your Tenancy Deposit
If a tenancy deposit was taken, it will normally be returned after:
- The tenancy has ended.
- The property has been checked.
- Any proposed deductions have been agreed or otherwise resolved.
Where the deposit is protected in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme, any dispute about proposed deductions can be referred to the scheme’s free Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service, if applicable.
Can Deductions Be Made?
Deductions are not automatic.
A landlord may seek deductions where they are permitted by the tenancy agreement and supported by evidence, for example:
- Outstanding rent.
- Damage beyond fair wear and tear.
- Missing items.
- Cleaning costs where the property has not been returned in the agreed condition (taking fair wear and tear into account).
Normal ageing and everyday use of the property should not result in charges.
Updating Your Address
Before leaving, remember to:
- Redirect your post.
- Notify your utility providers.
- Inform your bank and employer.
- Update your driving licence and other important records if required.
- Notify your local council where appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to attend the check-out inspection?
It’s often beneficial if you can attend, but this is not always essential. We’ll advise you of the arrangements.
When will I receive my deposit back?
Once the tenancy has ended, the check-out process has been completed and any proposed deductions have been agreed (or resolved through the tenancy deposit scheme if necessary), your deposit should be returned in accordance with the rules of the relevant deposit protection scheme.
What if I accidentally leave something behind?
Please contact us as soon as possible. We’ll discuss the available options, although storage or collection arrangements may involve additional costs.
Can I leave before my tenancy ends?
You should always discuss this with us first. Leaving early without agreement may affect your legal obligations under the tenancy agreement.
Conclusion
Moving out is the final stage of your tenancy. By giving the correct notice, leaving the property in good condition and returning all keys on time, you can help ensure a smooth check-out process and the prompt return of your tenancy deposit.
At Yes Properties, we’re here to support you from the day you move in until the day you hand back the keys.
