Thousands of people contact Threshold every year because their landlord has failed to return their rent deposit. Follow these tips from Threshold's advice staff and reduce your worries.

1. Only hand over money when you're happy with the accommodation. Always get a receipt.

2. All rent and bill payments must by law be recorded either in your rent book or by receipt if you have a lease.

3. Your landlord must give you a list of all furniture and appliances provided. The Threshold rent book provides space to note these items and their condition.

4. Take photographs of every room including any damaged items when you move in. Ask your landlord to sign and date them.

5. Look after your accommodation and promptly inform your landlord of any repairs needed. Allow the landlord access to make repairs.

6. Give appropriate notice when you are leaving.

7. Make sure that all rent and bills are paid.

8. When you leave, your landlord must promptly return your deposit. The landlord may only keep some or all of the deposit to cover rent arrears or the costs of repairing any damage above normal wear and tear.

9. Remember your rent deposit belongs to you, not to the landlord.

10. If your landlord fails to return your money or makes unfair deductions, please contact your nearest Threshold advice centre:

21 Stoneybatter, Dublin 7
T: 01 678 60 96
email: info@threshold.ie

22 South Mall, Cork
T: 021 427 88 48
email: threshold@eircom.net

3 Victoria Place, Merchants Rd., Galway
T: 091-563 080
Email: thresholdgalway@eircom.net