Move Out Procedure

On this page, you'll find guidance on moving out, including preparing the property, returning keys, and understanding the deposit return process. For detailed information on deposit returns, please visit this page.

Preparing to Move-Out

We will contact you to schedule a move-out inspection before the tenancy ends. This inspection will assess the property’s condition, including any required repairs or cleaning and can only happen once all tenants have moved out.

As you prepare to move out of your property, it's crucial to address several tasks, with deep cleaning being one of the most important. Cleaning is the number one reason for tenancy deposit disputes so don't leave yourself too much to do when you move out.

The property's cleanliness requirements will be outlined in the Move-In Inventory Report provided to all tenants at the start of the tenancy. If the Move-Out Inspection Report indicates that the property was left in a less clean condition, you will be held responsible for the costs associated with restoring it to the required standard.

Whether you choose to hire a professional cleaner or handle the cleaning yourself, it’s vital to have your Move-In Inventory Report on hand to compare the property's initial condition with its current state. If you need assistance in finding a professional cleaner, feel free to reach out to us.

For detailed tips and recommendations, please refer to our cleaning guide for completing a thorough end-of-tenancy clean.

On the Day of Move-Out

Ensure the property is free of personal belongings, cleaned, and all keys returned by all tenants. If no inspection is booked or you’re leaving outside office hours, return keys to our office no later than 12 pm on the final day of your tenancy.

If needed and keys are being returned earlier but after office hours, place the keys in a sealed envelope with your name and flat number and post them through our secure letterbox. Please notify us if you're doing this.

It’s essential we receive all keys before your tenancy ends. If we don’t, we may have to change the locks for the next tenants, and the associated charges will be passed on to you.

After the Inspection

Following the move-out inspection, you'll receive a photographic Inventory Report along with a Tenancy Liability form. This will include meter readings and any chargeable damages or cleaning that may affect your deposit return. This form must be signed within 21 days to proceed with the deposit release.

We’ll also provide photos of your utility meters where possible and you must make sure to close your utility accounts using these final meter readings to avoid estimated bills.

If you wish to dispute any charges, we’re happy to discuss this with you and the landlord. For deposit allocation, the lead tenant (as recorded by TDS Custodial) will manage how the deposit is distributed among tenants.

Important Notes:

• Consumables: You are responsible for replacing items like light bulbs, smoke/CO alarm batteries, mattress protectors, and vacuum bags. If a light bulb was functional when you moved in but not when you move out, you will be charged for it.
• Meter Readings & Utilities: We will take all possible meter readings and include them in your move-out report. You should also take your own readings and submit them to your utility providers for final billing.
• Council Tax: You are liable for council tax until the final day of your tenancy. Ensure you inform the council that you're moving, even if you are a student exempt from council tax.
• Cancelling Standing Orders: Be sure to cancel standing orders after your final rent payment to avoid overpayments.
• Redirecting Post: Consider redirecting your mail to your new address using the Royal Mail redirection service to prevent any lost mail.

Damage vs. Wear and Tear

If any of the landlord's property is damaged, it must be repaired or replaced. Damages caused by avoidable misuse will incur charges, but if the damage is due to fair wear and tear or due to a mechanical fault out of your or our control, then the Landlord will be happy to bear the charge. 

If the damage is found to have been avoidable, or caused through inappropriate use or carelessness or accident on your part, then you will have to bear any charge for repair or replacement.

Categorising damage against fair wear and tear is a difficult task. At Bee City Living, we define fair wear and tear to be expected or reasonable marks, wear or damage caused by normal and reasonable use.

Several factors will affect whether any damage is classified as fair wear and tear, including (but not limited to):

• If it was present before the tenants moved in
• The age of the item
• The quality of the damaged item (i.e. a lower quality item will be less resistant to wear and tear, and vice versa)
• If the damage was preventable
• The length of the tenancy
• The number of tenants
• Whether we were alerted to the issue/problem prior to conducting our move out inspection

Some examples of damage and our classification are found below:

• Marks on the wall from blue tack or similar fixings - Damage
• A hole in the wall - Damage
• Broken light bulbs - Damage
• Small scuff marks - Fair wear and tear

For more information about what fair wear-and-tear is, please see this guide produced by the mydeposits tenancy deposit scheme

Returning your deposit

You are entitled to receive your full deposit back at the end of your tenancy, as long as the property is left in the same condition as when you first moved in. This means that it is important to ensure that the property is thoroughly cleaned and any damages or wear and tear are addressed before your departure.

If the Move-Out Inspection reveals that cleaning is required or if any repairs are necessary due to damage that occurred during your tenancy, the associated costs will be deducted from your deposit. It's crucial to note that any issues deemed beyond normal wear and tear will also incur charges. Therefore, to maximize the amount of your deposit returned, we highly recommend reviewing the Move-In Inventory Report and addressing any discrepancies before you vacate the property.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure a smooth transition and increase the likelihood of receiving your full deposit back in a timely manner. Should you have any questions or require assistance with the cleaning process, please do not hesitate to reach out for support.

Take a look at the page for a detailed guide on the next steps for releasing your deposit