Deposit compliance is a timed handoff of money and information. This guide tracks the landlord’s steps after receiving a deposit: check the amount, protect it, serve the required information and keep proof of each action.
The deposit protection timeline
Record the amount and the date the deposit is received.
Protect the deposit with an approved scheme.
Give the tenant the required information and keep proof.
Choose an approved scheme
The approved schemes in England and Wales are the Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits and the Tenancy Deposit Scheme. Each offers a custodial option or an insured option. Compare how the money is held, the fee and the administration process.
Protect the money within 30 days
The 30-day period starts when the deposit is received, including when another person pays it for the tenant. Register the correct property, landlord, tenant and deposit details. Check the confirmation rather than assuming a payment or draft registration completed the process.
Give the required information
Tell the tenant where the deposit is protected, how the scheme works, how repayment is requested and how disputes are handled. Include the required contact details and reasons why deductions may be proposed. Keep evidence showing what was sent and when.
- Property and deposit details
- Scheme contact details
- Repayment process
- Dispute process
- Landlord and tenant contact details
Prepare for the end of the tenancy
Use the signed inventory, check-in record, inspection notes, invoices and photographs when considering deductions. Discuss the figures with the tenant and return the agreed amount within 10 days. If agreement is not possible, use the scheme’s dispute service.
