My landlord won't return my deposit — who do I go to?

Direct answer

First a written demand to the landlord with a deadline (14 days is normal) and your bank details — most deposits come back at this stage. If nothing happens, Békéltető testület (megyei) (bekeltetes.hu) is the body that deals with rent and deposit disputes in Hungary. For advice on what you can claim and what the landlord may deduct, Fogyasztóvédelmi tanácsadó irodák (fogyasztovedelem.kormany.hu). The last step is a small-claims or rent court, where you can usually go without a lawyer.

Hungarian law does not cap the deposit, but under the Civil Code a tenant can ask a court to reduce an excessive one (above three months' rent).

Call firstBékéltető testület (megyei)

Report toFogyasztóvédelmi tanácsadó irodák

If that failsKözjegyző — fizetési meghagyás

🗣️ What to say

"My tenancy at [address] ended on [date]. The deposit of €… has not been returned and I have received no itemised deductions. I request the full amount within 14 days to [IBAN]. Otherwise I will take it to Békéltető testület (megyei)."

🪜 Step by step

Write, don't callA dated letter or e-mail with the amount, the end date, your bank details and a 14-day deadline. Keep proof of sending.
Collect evidenceThe signed contract, the move-in and move-out inspection reports, photos with dates, and the proof you paid the deposit.
Ask Fogyasztóvédelmi tanácsadó irodák what appliesWhich deductions are allowed (unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear) and what is not (repainting, normal wear, cleaning that was not agreed).
File with Békéltető testület (megyei)The rent dispute body or deposit scheme handles this without a lawyer and usually within weeks.
Court as last resortSmall-claims procedures exist for exactly this amount range; the landlord usually pays the costs if you win.

📇 All contacts

Békéltető testület (megyei)Free dispute resolution, tenancy cases includedWhen the demand did not work🔗 bekeltetes.hu

Fogyasztóvédelmi tanácsadó irodákFree legal advice, template lettersBefore you write, on deductions and deadlines🔗 fogyasztovedelem.kormany.hu

Közjegyző — fizetési meghagyásPayment order without a lawyerLast step, with a clear claim🔗 www.mokk.hu/fizetesi-meghagyas

❓ Frequently asked

How long may the landlord take?

It varies by country, but "a reasonable time" after a final inspection is usually a few weeks; Fogyasztóvédelmi tanácsadó irodák knows the exact rule for Hungary.

Can the landlord keep it for repainting?

Not for normal wear and tear. Damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent or bills, and cleaning you agreed to do can be deducted — itemised, with receipts.

I have no written contract

You still have a tenancy and still get the deposit back. Bank transfers, messages and witnesses prove the agreement.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

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🔑 My landlord won't return my deposit — who do I go to?