Problems with landlord (scotland)

[atallorder]

Hi guys;

 

I was flat-sharing with two brothers, but I have decided to move out. The police raided our flat and found evidence of major crimes (I won't get into particulars for fear of compromising an on-going case) within the premises. I was totally stunned by all this as I had no idea, but ended up spending two days in the cells until I got liberated by the PF.

 

Given the severity of the charges against my flatmates, plus the real possibility I maybe called as a witness against them, I have moved out and taken all my belongings, taking a witness with me at all times to cover myself.

 

In short, my deposit of £267 has not been deposited in a rent deposit scheme. I specifically texted the landlord requesting that my deposit be secured via this system, as was the law. I got a long convoluted text from him outlining that he had an alternate system whereby one of my other flatmates had it, and so he was responsible for the deposit. I knew this was nonsense, but my flatmate explained that he would give me the balance, and he would be remibursed by the landlord. This seemed to make sense, given that the landlord lives down in England.

 

Some crucial facts:

 

1) I have contacted the landlord by text and intimated that I have moved out the property. I have told him exactly what has happened and explained that I want no further contact with my flatmates at all. As such, I want the landlord, and the landlord alone to return my deposit, or some representative of his.

2) I have a reciept from my flatmate concerning the deposit, which was signed and dated on the day I handed it over.

3) I have the tenancy agreement that specifies the landlord will deposit the money in a rent deposit scheme. He hasn't.

 

I am currently on benefits and tbh,what little patience I had for this has now gone. I don't want these guys profiting especially after ruining my life!

 

I don't want to be out of pocket with all this. Can anyone advise the best way to proceed?

[stu007]

Hi

 

Welcome to CAG and sorry you havent had any replies yet but the caggers will be along to help.

 

1. Is the property classed as an HMO?

2. Did you have your own tenancy agreement or was it joint with other flatmates?

3. What does your tenancy agreement say about the deposit?

4. Have you spoken with the Private Landlords section of your local council about this?

 

Have a look at this link from Scottish Government on Safeguarding Tenancy Deposits:

 

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/Housing/privaterent/government/SGTD1