Flatfair boss Gary Wright (main picture) is claiming his company’s alternative deposit scheme is already providing solutions to the issues raised in Generation Rent’s research, which suggests renters are losing millions as a result of unfair deposit deductions.

The survey of 2,000 private renters found that almost half (46%) are unaware they can challenge deposit deductions they believe are unfair, and only 4% have used formal dispute resolution processes to recover money.

Landlords’ pockets

Dan Wilson Craw, deputy chief executive of Generation Rent, told the Guardian that the current system is: “Failing renters who are put off from challenging unfair deductions by unclear rules, and threats and delaying tactics from landlords.”

And he estimates that it is putting millions into unscrupulous landlords’ pockets.

The current deposit system is outdated and fails to protect the interests of both tenants and landlords.”

Wright agrees and is calling for greater innovation in the rental sector, saying: “The current deposit system is outdated and fails to protect the interests of both tenants and landlords.

“Locking away hundreds or even thousands of pounds for months on end creates financial pressure and unnecessary tension, especially at the end of a tenancy.”

He says Flatfair’s No Deposit solution was built to solve precisely this challenge. He explains that it replaces the traditional upfront deposit with a simple and affordable check-in fee, providing renters with financial relief, while landlords still enjoy equal or greater protection if something does go wrong.

Disputes are handled quickly

“More importantly,” he adds, “Our model ensures that disputes are handled quickly, transparently, and independently. When disagreements do arise, tenants and landlords benefit from a clear, digital process—free from the ambiguity that so often discourages tenants from seeking redress under traditional schemes.”

“While many landlords operate fairly, the data from Generation Rent shows that too many renters still face unjust deductions. Flatfair’s No Deposit product includes independent adjudication and a clear resolution process, helping to rebuild trust on both sides of the rental relationship.”