Deposits that do not need to be protected
Your deposit does not need to be protected with a deposit scheme if:
you live with your landlord
your landlord is a family member
you stay in a holiday home
you stay in a property used by a religious organisation
you live in supported accommodation
you have an agricultural or crofting tenancy
Most other deposits will need to be protected in a deposit protection scheme.
What is a deposit?
A deposit is a sum of money which acts as a guarantee against:
damage you may do to the property
cleaning bills if you leave the property in poor condition
unpaid bills, such as energy or telephone bills
any unpaid rent
Landlords can ask for a maximum of two months rent as a deposit.
When you pay your deposit
Make sure you:
agree the deposit amount in writing (including what it may be used for)
get a receipt for the amount paid
understand how it will be returned at the end of your tenancy
Check the property and the items on the inventory when you move in. Take photos of their condition. This can help if there is a dispute at the end of the tenancy.
You can create your own inventory if your landlord does not provide one.
Getting your deposit returned
At the end of the tenancy there may be a delay in the return of the deposit. Your landlord will inspect the property and check for any outstanding bills.
A deposit cannot be used to replace items that are damaged or worn due to normal wear and tear. This includes worn carpets and furniture.
Property Mark's guide to fair wear and tear.
If you don’t get your deposit back
You can claim the money back in court when:
you disagree with the landlord about the deduction or
they do not return your deposit
It is not advised to withhold any rent to cover your deposit, unless your landlord agrees to this in writing. Your landlord could take court action to recover the money.
If you do withhold rent, keep the money in a separate bank account. Then if the court orders you to pay the money you will be able to.
Be aware if you take this course of action, and the landlord goes to court, it could affect your credit status and you might have to pay court costs.
If you need housing advice, contact us for free.
Last updated: 15 September 2021
Housing laws differ between Scotland and England.
This content applies to Scotland only.