Estate agent's trying to clean up on cleaning bill

bashout

BitterAndTwisted wrote: »

Just dispute their claim for cleaning the carpet if you choose not to do it yourself via the tenancy deposit scheme's arbitration procedure if they insist on making a deduction for it. They can't get away with charging you an up-front fee to have it done and then demand that you pay for it again.

If you believe that the paper-work is absolutely clear that you've already paid for the carpet-cleaning they won't get way with it.

In the meantime put your position in writing to the landlord now as you'll need that for the arbitrators.

Well, hopefully it won't come to this but in the event that it does I think this would be a good tactic. :T I do feel that the paperwork is absolutely in our favour on this one.

leeelw

i worked in sales and not lettings but the advice you have had so far has been really sound

i've never heard of a "keeping a cat fee" - normally they would ask you to take out a pet insurance.

there is nothing stopping you ringing a couple of other letting agents, a quick call - if a landlord has approved you to have a pet, what is their normal proto-col ?

your deposit is protected, find out who holds the deposit and send them the proof that 1) you was allowed to keep a pet and the landlord knew - 2) send the paperwork which states the £100 was for cleaning the carpets.

there is a cap on what the agent can charge and you can request reciepts

I had an issue whereby, the rental agent tried to charge me £120 for cleaning a kitchen drawer and removing hair from the plug hole in the bathroom, i made a counter offer of £25 which was accepted

the rental agents are sometimes animals themselves but i feel - having the paperwork in this case will protect you

good luck