Landlord will not answer
If messages are ignored, build a clean timeline showing when you paid, when you left, when you requested the deposit and what response, if any, was given.
Rental deposit not returned in Spain?
Before you escalate, organise the facts properly. A withheld deposit problem is easier to deal with when your contract, payment proof, messages, photos, dates and requested outcome are already clear.
Damage is alleged
Damage claims are easier to challenge when you have dated photos, inventory records, check-in evidence and checkout evidence.
Agency blames the owner
Record who took payment, who signed the agreement, who holds the deposit and who is giving instructions. This matters before escalation.
What to collect before you complain
A strong first-stage complaint is usually built from documents, dates and proof — not long explanations. Before sending another message, gather the core evidence.
- Rental contract, booking agreement or reservation confirmation.
- Proof of deposit payment, bank transfer, card payment or receipt.
- WhatsApp, SMS, email or booking platform messages.
- Check-in and checkout photos or videos.
- Inventory list, key handover evidence and meter readings where relevant.
- Any written reason given for keeping all or part of the deposit.
- Any repair invoice, cleaning charge, damage claim or deduction explanation.
- The exact amount requested and the outcome you want.
Do not weaken your position by arguing randomly
When money is involved, avoid scattered voice notes, angry threats or repeated phone calls with no record. A calm written complaint, supported by evidence and dates, is usually stronger than emotional pressure.
Common reasons deposits are withheld
Cleaning or damage deductions
Ask for the specific item, amount, evidence and invoice or estimate relied on.
Utility or bill disputes
Keep meter readings, bills, payment records and the contract clause being relied on.
No explanation at all
A missing explanation is exactly why a structured timeline and written request are important.
How CostaSure structures the issue
CostaSure helps turn the situation into a practical first-stage file: what happened, what evidence exists, what is missing, who appears involved and what the next sensible step may be.
- Clear chronology of the rental deposit issue.
- Evidence strengths and missing evidence points.
- Practical first-stage wording for the complaint route selected.
- Escalation preparation if the landlord, agency or platform does not respond.