T vacated but stole cooker/curtains/blinds and left a mess

[mind the gap]

I agree with Poppy. By all means report the thefts to the police and get a crime number (you may even be able to claim from your LLs' insurance - it depends how comprehensive it is), but it is probably futile to pursue it actively through the courts since you will end up even more out of pocket.

Make sure the next lot are properly referenced, give 6 weeks' deposit and have guarantors if they are young, low/no income tenants.

Where did you get this lot from, out of interest?