@Steve__M Thank you for the advice. @mariner51 the tenant is a consultant who works for us, they are currently working on a project for us in Australia and ask if we could give any advice as they are out of the country now. I asked for some further information, the agent was actually engaged as an introduction, once background / credit check was completed the tenant dealt directly with the landlord, rental payments and overpayment went directly to the landlords account.

We recently had an overseas consultant work in England for 6 months, they rented an apartment from a large reputable letting agent. The consultant completed the 6 month lease and the deposit was returned. Unfortunately the consultant forgot to cancel the direct monthly payment and has over paid £5500 since leaving the apartment before noticing and contacting the letting agent. The agent has offered a £3000 refund indicating they have had to pay taxes against the amount. Could anyone give some guidance on if the agent is correct or if the amount should be refunded in full or with some admin deductions? Thank you for your help,