Your Landlord Is Not Responding: What to Do Next

One of the most common complaints from tenants is that their landlord simply ignores them after the tenancy ends. They keep the deposit and stop replying to messages. This is frustrating but it does not mean you have lost your money. You have clear legal routes to recover it.

Step 1: Put It in Writing

If you have only contacted your landlord by phone or text, send a formal demand letter by email and recorded post. Citizens Advice recommends giving the landlord 14 days to respond. State clearly what you are requesting, why you believe the deductions are unfair, and what you will do if they do not respond (escalate to the deposit scheme or court).

Step 2: Contact the Deposit Scheme

If the landlord does not respond within your deadline, raise a dispute directly with the deposit scheme. The DPS, TDS, and MyDeposits all have online dispute forms. The scheme will contact the landlord on your behalf. If the landlord fails to respond to the scheme within the required timeframe, the scheme may release the deposit to you by default.

Step 3: Check If the Deposit Was Protected

If the landlord is completely unresponsive, check whether the deposit was actually protected. Use the deposit checkers for DPS, TDS, and MyDeposits. If the deposit was never protected, you may be entitled to 1–3x compensation under Section 214 of the Housing Act 2004, in addition to the return of the deposit itself.

Step 4: Small Claims Court

If all else fails, you can file a claim through the county court small claims track. Our guide to taking your landlord to small claims court walks you through the full process. For claims under £10,000, the process is straightforward and designed for people without solicitors. Court fees start from £35 and are recoverable if you win. According to Shelter, the threat of court action alone often prompts a response from previously silent landlords.