A sample letter

Here's an example of the kind of letter we draft. Yours will be personalised to your situation, evidence, and desired outcome.

Ms. J. Harper

14 Beechwood Lane

Bristol, BS6 7QF

14 May 2026

Customer Relations Manager

Northgate Lettings Ltd

22 Park Street

Bristol, BS1 5JA

Re: Formal complaint and request for return of tenancy deposit — Tenancy ref. NG-2024-0418

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to formally complain about the handling of my tenancy deposit of £1,450 in connection with the property at the above reference, which I vacated on 28 March 2026. Despite returning the property in a clean and well-maintained condition, and providing photographic evidence of its state on the day I left, your office has retained the full deposit citing unspecified "general wear and damage."

Under the terms of my tenancy agreement and the protections afforded by the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, you are required to provide a clear, itemised breakdown of any deductions, supported by evidence of the cost incurred. To date I have received neither. The single email sent on 11 April 2026 referred only to "cleaning and minor repairs" without invoices, photographs, or further detail.

I have enclosed dated photographs taken on the day of check-out, together with the signed inventory from the start of the tenancy. Together these demonstrate that the property was returned in the same condition in which it was let, allowing only for fair wear and tear.

To resolve this matter I require:

  1. The full return of my £1,450 deposit within 14 days of this letter; and
  2. Written confirmation that no adverse reference relating to this tenancy will be provided to future landlords or referencing agencies.

If I do not receive a satisfactory response by 28 May 2026 I will raise a formal dispute with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme and, if necessary, pursue recovery of the sum owed through the small claims court, where I will also seek interest and costs.

Yours faithfully,

J. Harper

Enc: Check-out photographs (12), signed inventory (4 pages), tenancy agreement.

This letter is illustrative only. Names, addresses, and details are fictional.