Where do I stand legally?

MinniMe_2

Alleycat - thanks - it was March this year but I have checked and the deposite has not been protected and the only way to get it back is through court which isn't much use if I can't contact him.

Thanks so much for all your advice guys - just feeling so frustrated at not being able to anything

bigstevex

This isn't the best advice, but just stop paying the SO! You will get your deposit back through not paying but staying there. At the same time look for somewhere else! Take some photos of the place as you left it when/if you move out against a current newspaper or something for date reference. Have you spoken to a solicitor maybe? They might have some handy tips?

paintpot

MinniMe wrote: »

Thanks so much for all your advice guys - just feeling so frustrated at not being able to anything

DON'T GIVE UP YET!

Go see if you can find him at this company. There are some good brains on this forum and if it's possible to get your deposit back and you want to pursue him then it is still possible yet.

You have your plan now for when you move out if he doesn't appear unless anyone else has any other bright ideas.

If you find him at the company, you can write to him there before you leave.

If you leave and he hasn't made contact then it's going to take some tactics to try and get your deposit back. And, if you find him, there is always the chance of you pursuing him for not protecting your deposit.

clutton_2

read Eagerlearners thread - she got her deposit back from an utter witch of a LL - set aside a couple of hours reading time !!!1

guppy

Don't get hung up about the keys, they're not important legally. Just leave them in the property if it comes to it.

So long as you give proper notice, you're fine.

tbs624

Agree with Paintpot - if you know where this man works then you pursue him there.

If he is refusing to sign for recorded delivery, then write a formal letter confirming the date you are moving out, that all utility bills will be paid up to date, that the property is left in the same condition as at the start of the tenancy, fair wear & tear excepted and that you are returning the keys. Request the return of your deposit in full within 10 days. Also put in your letter that you understand that he did not register your deposit as required by law.

Then hand deliver the letter to the workplace, with a witness who will be prepared to sign a statement confirming delivery. Also google him, check any other post that comes to the property before you leave. As Clutton says EL's thread will inspire you - do a forum search on tenancy deposits - search function up on top right of page.

Did you pay the deposit direct to the LL or did the LA receive it on his behalf? Although the LL is ultimately responsible other tenants have named both the LA and the LL on a court claim: it often helps persuade a LA to do a bit more to help.

Keep posting here - you'll get more suggestions

MinniMe_2

guppy thank you, tbs thank you, clutton thank you, paintpot thank you.

I guess my next step is to go down to the work place and see if he is there.

don't worry I am NOT giving up, just a bit worried about what to do with the keys!!

MinniMe_2

All - I just wanted to say thank you for your support and making sure i didn't give up.

The LL is brining my deposite in cash this evening

paintpot

Brilliant, you tracked him down then? Well done you

Debt_Free_Chick

If he is the Director of a Ltd Company, his home address has to be on the Company Record at Companies House. You can download a Company Record Report or a Current Appointments Report for £1 (each) from Companies House