If you’re a tenant in the UK, you may not realise how important your tenancy deposit is until something goes wrong. Whether your landlord failed to protect your deposit or is refusing to return it without a valid reason, you could be entitled to compensation.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about tenancy deposit claims, your legal rights as a tenant, and how to take action if you’ve been treated unfairly.
What is a Tenancy Deposit Claim?
A tenancy deposit claim is a legal process where a tenant seeks compensation or return of their deposit when a landlord fails to meet their legal obligations. In the UK, landlords are required to:
- Protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme (e.g., DPS, TDS, MyDeposits)
- Provide you with prescribed information within 30 days of receiving your deposit
- Return your deposit within 10 days of agreeing on deductions at the end of the tenancy
If any of these requirements are not met, tenants can pursue a claim for up to three times the amount of the deposit in compensation.
When can tenants make a deposit claim?
You can make a tenancy deposit claim if:
- Your landlord did not protect your deposit
- You were not given the prescribed information
- Your deposit was returned late or not at all
- Unfair deductions were made without explanation
Even if your tenancy has already ended, you can still bring a claim for up to six years from the breach.
How much compensation can I claim?
If your landlord failed to protect your deposit correctly, the court can order them to pay:
- Between 1 to 3 times the amount of your original deposit
- The full return of your deposit (if wrongfully withheld)
For example, if your deposit was £1,000, you could be awarded up to £3,000 in compensation, plus your original deposit.
Common landlord mistakes
Many landlords unknowingly or deliberately breach tenancy deposit rules. Common issues include:
- Failing to protect the deposit on time
- Not using an approved scheme
- Holding the deposit in a personal account
- Delaying the return of the deposit after tenancy ends
- Making vague or unfair deductions
If this sounds familiar, it’s worth seeking legal advice.
How to start a Tenancy Deposit Claim
Here are the basic steps:
- Gather evidence (tenancy agreement, deposit receipt, communications)
- Check if your deposit was protected using the TDS, DPS, or MyDeposits websites
- Send a formal complaint to your landlord
- If unresolved, start legal proceedings or contact a solicitor
Why choose GLP Solicitors?
At GLP Solicitors, we specialise in helping tenants make successful tenancy deposit claims. We offer:
- Free initial consultation
- No win, no fee arrangements
- A dedicated legal team with housing law expertise
- Proven track record of recovering £thousands in compensation for tenants
We’re here to protect your rights and hold landlords accountable.
FAQs about Tenancy Deposit Claims
Can I claim if my tenancy has already ended?
Yes. You can claim for up to six years after the breach occurred.
What if I don’t have a written tenancy agreement?
You may still have a valid claim. Courts will look at the facts, not just documents.
What if my landlord is refusing to return my deposit?
If they haven’t given a lawful reason or failed to follow the correct process, you may be entitled to a full refund and compensation.
Get help with your Tenancy Deposit Claim today
If you think your landlord hasn’t handled your deposit fairly, don’t wait. Contact GLP Solicitors and speak to our experts. We’ll help you understand your rights and take the stress out of the legal process.
Click here to start your claim today or call us on 0800 111 6370 for a free consultation.
