Landlord Withheld Two Months' Deposit — Full Amount Recovered

Background

Our client rented a flat in Kowloon for two years. On moving out, she conducted a thorough clean of the property and returned the keys to the landlord's agent. The deposit was HK$24,000 (equivalent to two months' rent).

Three weeks later, the landlord refused to return the deposit, claiming the unit had been "damaged" and citing issues including alleged wall scratches and stains on the kitchen tiles. The client strongly disputed these claims — the property had been in that condition when she moved in, and she had photos to prove it.

How We Helped

Evidence organisation: We helped the client compile move-in and move-out photos (both timestamped), the tenancy agreement, key return records, and her written requests for the deposit to be returned.

Filing support: We completed the claim form clearly setting out the tenancy period, the deposit amount, why the alleged damage was pre-existing, and why the withholding was unjustified.

Pre-hearing preparation: We coached the client on how to walk the Adjudicator through the photographic evidence chronologically and respond to the landlord's likely claims.

Outcome

At the hearing, the client presented her move-in and move-out photos side by side. The Adjudicator found that the landlord failed to prove the alleged damage was caused by the tenant and ordered the full HK$24,000 deposit to be returned.

Key Takeaway

Taking detailed, timestamped photos when you move in AND when you move out is the single most important step to protect yourself in any deposit dispute. A clear visual record showing the property's condition at both dates is often decisive evidence.