Tenancy deposit protection: the 30-day workflow for England landlords
What to record, protect and provide within 30 days when taking a tenancy deposit in England.
In brief
A tenancy deposit covered by the statutory scheme must be protected with an authorised provider and the required information must be given to the tenant within 30 days of receipt. The operational task is not complete until both steps—and the evidence—are recorded.
01
Protection and information are separate steps
Registering the money with a scheme is only part of the workflow. The tenant must also receive the prescribed information, including how the deposit is protected and how repayment or disputes are handled.
02
Keep a complete evidence pack
Retain the scheme certificate, prescribed information, tenancy details, deposit amount, date received and proof of delivery. If another person paid the deposit, record their details too.
- Date the deposit was received.
- Scheme and protection reference.
- Signed or otherwise evidenced prescribed information.
- Proof of delivery to the relevant people.
03
Correct mistakes with advice
Late or incomplete protection can affect remedies and possession options. Do not assume that a late registration cures every consequence. Check the scheme guidance and obtain legal advice for an existing breach.
Rules and rollout dates can change. Recheck these primary sources before acting.