That deposit you handed over in belief is likely to be sitting unprotected – however a easy test may allow you to
MSE have urged folks to make the test (Picture: Getty)
On Might 1, new renters’ rights legal guidelines got here into power in England, bringing main modifications to the rental market. Alongside these modifications, there’s one other necessary factor tenants ought to test if they’re paying – or have already paid – a deposit.
Steerage from MoneySavingExpert, up to date on Might 1, 2026, says tenancy deposits should be protected.
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MSE explains: “For almost all of personal tenancies within the UK, the owner MUST put your deposit right into a safety scheme. In England, Wales and Scotland they’ve to do that inside 30 days of getting it. In Northern Eire they solely have 28 days.”
How can I test my deposit is protected?
Earlier than signing your contract, ask your landlord or letting agent which deposit safety scheme they use to verify your deposit is protected. MSE says that in the event you’ve already moved in and the scheme isn’t in your contract, it’s best to ask the owner and get their reply in writing.
In England and Wales, the authorised schemes are the Deposit Safety Service, My Deposits and Tenancy Deposit Scheme. If you have not been advised which your deposit’s protected underneath inside 30 days of paying it, contact them on to test.
For Scotland, the schemes are Letting Safety Service Scotland, Protected Deposits Scotland and My Deposits Scotland. See the Scottish Authorities web site for extra particulars.
In Northern Eire, the schemes are Tenancy Deposit Scheme Northern Eire and My Deposits Northern Eire. See the NIdirect web site for extra particulars.
My deposit just isn’t protected, what ought to I do?
In case your landlord ought to have protected your deposit however didn’t put it in a tenancy deposit safety scheme, you may apply to the county courtroom for assist. The courtroom can order the owner to return your deposit or place it in an official scheme. The owner might also should pay you compensation of as much as 3 times the deposit quantity.
MSE directs folks to Gov.uk, NIdirect and the Scottish Authorities. It concludes: “Should you really feel your deposit’s being unfairly withheld on the finish of your tenancy, it is properly value combating for.”
You may learn the total monetary guru’s tips about renting and depositing on the MSE web site.
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