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, Sdružení nájemníků ČR (SON) (234 463 343) is the body that deals with rent and deposit disputes in Czechia. For advice on what you can claim and what the landlord may deduct, dTest — spotřebitelská poradna (299 149 009). The last step is a small-claims or rent court, where you can usually go without a lawyer.

In Czechia the deposit is capped at three months' rent; the landlord returns it when the tenancy ends and may set off only proven debts.

Call firstSdružení nájemníků ČR (SON)

Report todTest — spotřebitelská poradna

If that failsOkresní soud — platební rozkaz

🗣️ 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 Sdružení nájemníků ČR (SON)."

🪜 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 dTest — spotřebitelská poradna 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 Sdružení nájemníků ČR (SON)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

Sdružení nájemníků ČR (SON)Free tenant advice, mediationWhen the demand did not work📞 234 463 343 🔗 www.son.cz

dTest — spotřebitelská poradnaLegal advice, template lettersBefore you write, on deductions and deadlines📞 299 149 009 🔗 www.dtest.cz/poradna

Okresní soud — platební rozkazElectronic payment order without a lawyerLast step, with a clear claim🔗 www.justice.cz

❓ 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; dTest — spotřebitelská poradna knows the exact rule for Czechia.

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?