When my tenants leave, I was going to carry out a full inventory check with them there (if they wanted to be there) give them their deposit back once they show me proof of payment of electricity and gas. This presumably will be within a week and will give me time to check the inventory in full. I am sure this is standard practice in UK - is this right? There are also a couple of issues with the flat (see earlier question I uploaded and the hoover problem) so I dont want to end up in one of those Yes you did No I didnt arguments which just go round and round..... I would rather go away with the inventory with notes as appropriate (presumably with input from them) and then make a decision. I do not want to rip these guys off but I dont think they are going to give up the hoover or its cost lightly!.--Answer1:Yes it is standard procedure and I take it you registered the deposit with a Tenant Deposit Scheme (UK). If you didnt then I advise you not to rock the boat over a cost of a vacuum cleaner as if the tenants seek legal advise you will not have a leg to stand on.Also your original inventory should have been agreed to and signed by the tenant or they can dispute the deduction, and then that could lead to the above.If you have everything in place and registered then look to resolve the dispute or repayment within 7 to 10 days, that is the norm.