Pretor Group Deducting Deposit for Pre-Existing Damages

I recently moved out of a rental property managed by Pretor Group, located at Summer Mews. When I moved in, the flat was in very poor condition. I was told that repairs would be done during my stay and that I should report urgent matters as needed — which I did.

Upon vacating, I was issued a quotation for several repairs, including the replacement of a shower hose/bracket and a broken tile — both of which were already in bad condition when I moved in. If the owner now wants to replace them, it should not be at my expense.

Despite this, I’m being charged not only for the repairs but also R450 for labour and R450 for travelling, related to work I should not be paying for. They even charged me for a globe cover (which was at the unit but not recorded properly), and for a pantry door that wasn’t closing from the start of my lease.

In the agent's own words:

"I shall deduct this (R2,906.00) and the cleaning (R328.95) from the deposit and the move out fee of R690.00."

This totals R3,924.95, which is more than half of my deposit — all for items that were either pre-existing or not my responsibility. That is simply unacceptable.

I have tried to resolve the issue with the agent, but my concerns have been dismissed. I am posting this to warn others: if you rent through Pretor Group, be prepared to lose a large portion of your deposit — even for damages you did not cause.