The latest research from SafeDeposits Scotland has found that 50 disputes have arisen between landlords and tenants in the Inverness area in the last year.

According to the findings, the average amount that tenants and landlords in the area disagreed over deductions to the deposit at the end of a tenancy was £406.15. The most common reason for the tenancy deposit disputes was attributed to cleaning, which was cited in 52% of cases within the IV postcode area.

Now the deposit protection provider is to deliver a workshop to demonstrate how to present evidence if there is a dispute with a tenant.

Part of SafeDeposits’ programme of workshops touring the country, the course will be held at Jurys Inn on Millburn Road on September 24 from 1pm to 4pm.

The workshop will be aimed at those who have not received previous training on adjudications and will include the use of real case studies of adjudication cases SafeDeposits Scotland has dealt with. In addition, information on how an adjudicator comes to a decision regarding the amount they decide to award will be provided.

Paula Guthrie, adjudication account manager at SafeDeposits Scotland, said: “As well as protecting tenancy deposits, SafeDeposits is committed to providing guidance and raising standards in the private rented sector. These courses will help landlords and agents around Inverness better understand the principles of adjudication and in turn help them to protect their investments.

“Some landlords and letting agents make errors at the beginning of tenancies which can cause problems at the end of the lease agreement. The private rented sector is always evolving, so these courses are a great way to keep up to date with best practice and new legislation.”

By law, landlords and letting agents who take deposits from tenants must protect them in a government-backed deposit protection scheme like SafeDeposits Scotland. Landlords who fail to do so can face a fine of up to three times the value of the deposit if the tenant launches a case with the First-tier Tribunal.

To book a free place at the event, please email events@safedepositsscotland.com.

Spaces are limited and will be offered on a first come, first served basis, interested parties are encouraged to get in touch as quickly as possible.