Tenancy deposits.

Tenancy Deposits

i own 5 houses that i let to students on joint tenancy contracts in Bangor, Gwynedd. I have not, up to now, demanded parental guarantees, but i require their parent's address on the contract. Their deposits are held with the DPS. I'm not quite clear as to whether, if they leave without paying all the rent, can i withold that same amount of money from their deposits? Also, if one or more of them don't pay, is it worthwhile taking them to the small claims court, as few of them actually live at their parents anymore. In the future i think i'll ask for parental guarantees.

Many thanks

Tom Goodland