Deposits
When you move into rented accommodation, most private landlords or letting agents ask for a deposit. This section explains what a deposit is for, how you can get help to pay your deposit, and what you should do if you have trouble getting your deposit back when you move out.
All about tenancys deposit in the private rented sector | Renting Scotland
If you need housing advice, contact us for free.
Deposits and deposit protection schemes
Landlords have to protect your deposit within 30 working days of the tenancy starting. Find out what to do if your deposit is not protected.
Deposits that do not need to be protected
Not all deposits need to be registered with a tenancy deposit scheme. This page explains which deposits don't need to be registered, what a deposit covers and how to get your deposit back.
Rent deposit and guarantee schemes
Struggling to raise the money for your rent deposit - a deposit guarantee scheme could help you.
What is an inventory and how to make one
An inventory lists the contents of a property. Having an inventory is important to help get your deposit back and get repairs done as it should describe the condition of the property as well. If you are not provided with an inventory you can also make your own
Last updated: 15 September 2021
Housing laws differ between Scotland and England.
This content applies to Scotland only.