Rental deposit returns in Greece: damage, outstanding charges and handover

What does the deposit secure?

The amount commonly called a rental deposit is governed by the parties' agreement and applicable law. It may secure rent, damage or other obligations. Start by identifying the relevant lease clause and proof of payment.

Greek case law connects repayment with the end of the lease, the landlord's outstanding claims and any special agreement. A general statement that the deposit has been lost is insufficient. Equally, a tenant should not assume that the final rent can simply go unpaid: any set-off requires review of the contract and legal conditions.

Wear from agreed use or damage?

The Civil Code distinguishes deterioration resulting from the agreed use from damage for which the tenant is responsible. The agreement, original condition, length of use and cause of the problem all matter. No automatic checklist resolves every dispute.

An appliance that stops working after several years needs assessment of its age and the cause of failure. Similar questions arise with damp, decoration and broken fittings. Entry and exit photographs, earlier notifications and a technical assessment may be more informative than an unexplained total for repairs.

Record the handover

Where possible, arrange a joint inspection and record the handover date. A short written record can identify what is agreed and what remains disputed. Both sides should retain a copy; reservations should not disappear into a general statement that everything is settled.

If a final bill is outstanding, agree clearly how it will be checked and accounted for. This makes it easier to discuss the actual remaining amount without reopening the entire history of the tenancy.

• Keys, remote controls and other equipment returned
• Meter readings and outstanding bills
• Condition of the premises and specific observations
• Deposit amount, agreed deductions and repayment arrangements

If repayment remains disputed

Ask for a written breakdown of each deduction and supporting evidence. Landlords should likewise organise claims by their specific cause. A formal request, negotiation or appropriate court claim can then be assessed.

The AADE electronic lease declaration is part of the tax process. Its submission receipt is not a replacement for an agreement about the deposit or evidence that private claims have been paid. Keep the lease, declarations, correspondence and handover records separately so that legal review has a complete picture.

At an initial meeting, explain whether the tenancy has actually ended, whether the keys have been accepted and what amount each side considers outstanding. These details help identify the point in dispute and a proportionate next step.