Lodger - Deposit queries - cashing cheques

Samcxjo

Hi,

I was a lodging with a guy for several months but have now moved out. Although he officially lived in the house, he was rarely there and wasn't around when I vacated, so I just left the keys and dropped him a text to say he was free to inspect the rooms and sort out my deposit, etc.

Few weeks later and I get a text saying he's checked the rooms and needs to deduct £40. I didn't agree with the alleged damage but figured it wasn't worth arguing over this small deduction, so I said he could go ahead.

Several weeks later I receive my cheque and find he's deducted £150 for a long list of things he hadn't mentioned previously. I'm going to challenge this, but what I want to know is: If I cash the cheque, is that "acceptance" of his offer? I'd like my extra £110 back, but at the same time I'm relieved to have gotten at least half of my deposit back already, and don't want to jeopardise this by challenging him.

Any suggestions? I understand lodgers aren't covered by any deposit schemes so he's pretty much got my cash...

BitterAndTwisted

He's got your cash and you won't be getting it back, so you might as well back that cheque. And cross your fingers in case it bounces.

G_M

Write to him thanking him him for his cheque which you have accepted as part payment for your deposit.

Remind him of the conversation (date, telephone/email whatever) in which he proposed to deduct £40.

Then explain why you disagree with each of the other deductions he has listed.

Do this by letter and keep a copy.

Whetehr you will get anywhere is uncertain, but if intend to try this is the way to do it.

If he does not answer, or repeats that he is keeping the rest of the deposit, your choices are to walk away andmove on with your life, or take him to court.