HELP! How do I get my accommodation deposit back?

mischacee123

Last year, in August 2011, I paid a deposit (by debit card) of £250 to Marylebone Hall (owned by the University of Westminster) for a room where I would stay for the entire academic year.

At the time of making payment, I was told that at the end of the year, my deposit would be returned to the same card from which I paid it, less any costs for damage I incurred during my stay, within six weeks of check-out from the residence.

In mid-May 2012, my bank account with NatWest was closed due to 'suspected fraudulent activity' (although the reason for closing is not relevant to my issue with the deposit) and my card therefore was blocked.

I immediately set up a new student bank account with Barclays and received a new debit card.

I was also aware that my check-out day was quickly approaching (27th May) and was very concerned that I would not be able to receive my deposit back to my account as it was no longer active. It simply no longer existed. I therefore spoke to staff at the Hall and requested to change my bank details. I was told that there would be no issue, as this year all student's deposits would be reimbursed via cheque instead of to the cards used.

I'm sure you can guess what happened next.

Contrary to the reassurance given to me by Hall staff, the deposits were actually returned to the cards from which we paid, and since my account was closed and card no longer in operation, I did not receive my money back.

Ever since then I have been trying to chase up my cash, to no avail. The bank/card issuers have assured me that no money has been received since the closure of my account. I was given an ARN (acquirer reference number) which I was told would enable the bank to trace money not allocated to any account. Again, the banks told me that the ARN was of no use, as any money sent to closed accounts is immediately returned to the sender's account.

I have contacted the University of Westminster's Finance Department and Accommodation Services but they insist that according to their records, the payment was 'successful', and they have received no money back so they simply cannot reissue my refund.

Although I have rather oversimplified the situation, I think I have included all the key facts here.

I am a student, and having sent countless emails to the university and spent a ridiculous amount on calling the bank and card issuer numerous times (the irony!), as well as going into various NatWest branches for assistance, I am at the end of my tether. I need the money and am sick of chasing what is rightfully mine, to no avail. Five months after I left, I am still no closer to receiving the money I had expected to receive within six weeks.

Please advise me on what I should do, I am at a loss!

mountainofdebt

Well if you could always send them a letter before action letter and if they don't respond to that take them to the small claims court

Sarah715

getting deposits back is a nightmare, hope you get it sorted!!

tbs624

mischacee123 wrote: »

In mid-May 2012, my bank account with NatWest was closed due to 'suspected fraudulent activity' (although the reason for closing is not relevant to my issue with the deposit) and my card therefore was blocked.

I immediately set up a new student bank account with Barclays and received a new debit card.

I was also aware that my check-out day was quickly approaching (27th May) and was very concerned that I would not be able to receive my deposit back to my account as it was no longer active. It simply no longer existed. I therefore spoke to staff at the Hall and requested to change my bank details. I was told that there would be no issue, as this year all student's deposits would be reimbursed via cheque instead of to the cards used.

I'm sure you can guess what happened next.

Contrary to the reassurance given to me by Hall staff, the deposits were actually returned to the cards from which we paid, and since my account was closed and card no longer in operation, I did not receive my money back.

My bolding. Hindsight and all that .....but for future dealings of this nature always use good old fashioned snail mail, with a copy letter retained by you.

Do you have written confirmation from your bank on this part

EThe bank/card issuers have assured me that no money has been received since the closure of my account. I was given an ARN (acquirer reference number) which I was told would enable the bank to trace money not allocated to any account. Again, the banks told me that the ARN was of no use, as any money sent to closed accounts is immediately returned to the sender's account.

If yes, then send a copy with a letter to the Head of Dept/Team Leader at UoW's Finance Office ( keep a copy of this letter)

I have contacted the University of Westminster's Finance Department and Accommodation Services but they insist that according to their records, the payment was 'successful', and they have received no money back so they simply cannot reissue my refund.

What evidence of this successful transfer have they offered you?

In your letter ask them to prioritise investigation into what has happened to your deposit monies: it sounds as though someone may have mis-allocated any return from the bank

Head the letter "Letter Before Action" ( as mentioned by mountanofdebt above) and tell them that unless your money is returned to you within 7 working days you will proceed to the small claims court. If you are still a student/on a low income you should qualify for help with court fees or you can tell the Uni that your claim will include a claim for interest ( yes a pittance, but still...) plus reimbursement of your court fee. Obtain a free cert of posting and keep it safe.

You may also want to flag up your experience with your NUS Rep at the Uni.

Do keep the thread updated - it can help others who have to deal with a similar issue.

sally_80

I'd like to say that a Bank is a service that we choose to use and we should be valued customers. If they are adamant that the money has not been seen their end I would go in and have a talk with one of the branch managers nearby (maybe cry a little ) and suggest that you arrange a time where all 3 party's can be present at the same time, either at the bank or at the university. Otherwise it sounds like you'll just keep ping-ponging between them.

If you face them off against each other it wont just be you on your own (unfortunately a tiny speck in their huge list of students/customers)

Sarah715

Threaten them with legal action! Works like a charm!