Take these steps in the weeks before you move out.

Give yourself the best chance of getting your deposit back on time.

Confirm your tenancy end date

Your tenancy could be ending because:

• you're moving out by the end of the fixed term

• you gave notice to end a rolling or periodic tenancy

• you used a break clause to end a fixed term tenancy early

• your landlord has given you notice, for example, a section 21 notice

Your tenancy end date can often be the last day of your fixed term or notice.

You could negotiate a different tenancy end date if your landlord is flexible about this.

If all joint tenants are leaving

Your deposit should be refunded when your joint tenancy ends.

If you paid a shared deposit, you may need to agree on a lead tenant who will:

• contact the landlord

• deal with the deposit protection scheme

• share out the deposit when you get the refund

If some tenants want to stay

The tenants who stay and any replacement tenants should sign a new agreement with the landlord.

Your tenancy will not end if any joint tenants stay past the end of a fixed term, unless a new agreement is in place.

Those moving out can only get a deposit refund when your joint tenancy ends.

Check your deposit is still protected

Your landlord should have given you written information about which of the 3 deposit protection schemes they are using.

Find out what happens if there's been a change of landlord or agent during your tenancy.

Read your most recent tenancy agreement

See if it says anything about when your landlord could make deductions.

Try to stick to any terms about the condition of the property but look out for unfair terms.

Find your inventory or check in report

Your landlord or agent should have done an inventory with you at the start of the tenancy.

An inventory is a list of fixtures, fittings and furnishings in each room. For example:

• furniture and appliances

• flooring, curtains and walls

• kitchen and bathroom fittings

The age, condition or cleanliness of each item should be noted on the inventory.

It should be an accurate record of the property's condition when you moved in.

Prepare for a check out inspection

You need to:

• replace any missing or broken items

• fix any damage you have caused if you can

• clean the property to the same standard as when you moved in

• make sure the garden is in a similar state to when you moved in

• dispose of any extra rubbish that does not fit into your wheelie bins

Look at your inventory or check in report. Return the property in a similar condition.

Your landlord should not withhold money from your deposit for fair wear and tear.