As part of the Housing Act 2004 the Government is introducing tenancy deposit protection for all assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) in England and Wales where a deposit is taken. From April 6th 2007, all deposits paid under an AST have had to be protected within 14 calendar days of receipt by the landlord.

The legislation aims to ensure that tenants who have paid a deposit to a landlord or letting agent and are entitled to receive all or part of it back at the end of that tenancy, actually get it.

FAQs - General Information

What is The Deposit Protection Service?
Why has this legislation been introduced?
Who can use The DPS?
Who is responsible for securing deposits?
How much do I have to pay to use The DPS?
What constitutes a deposit?
What happens if a deposit has not been protected?
In what circumstances does Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) not apply?
What guarantee do I have that the deposit I secure with The DPS is safe?
How can I make a complaint about The DPS?