Under what circumstances can landlords claim costs in excess of the deposit?

Connoisseurus_Rex

Currently dealing with a difficult landlord who is claiming I owe him rent post-tenancy because the property wasn't spotless which delayed them being able to rent out the property. 

Considering there was no tenant lined up to move in (not a single viewing while I was still living at the property), it seems disingenuous to claim I prevented the property being re-let when the landlord refused to carry out his duties. My understanding is that if the property is in an unsatisfactory condition (not professionally cleaned) at the end of the tenancy, the landlord can simply get the property cleaned and claim reasonable costs back from the deposit via TDS. 

From what I've read, you could be liable in extreme cases (property trashed or filled with bulky furniture that requires removal). My position is that I'm owed back my deposit minus reasonable cleaning fees, am I wrong?

tacpot12

It will depend on what the reasonable cleaning fees are, but your position is reasonable. You are owed your deposit back, less reasonable cleaning fees and for any damage that is beyond what is expected (landlords aren't allowed to charge for reasonable wear and tear). 

Sam_666

You are owned full deposit. Consult deposit scheme for refund.
Have you got photos of every space showing it was clean? If so, landlord has no case and is simply chanceing it. You are not liable for anything else. Stop comunicating with ex landlord and deal only with deposit scheme.