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England

Holding deposits

Agreeing a tenancy

You have 15 days from paying a holding deposit to agree a tenancy.

You could agree a different deadline with the landlord or agent in writing.

You might lose your holding deposit if you do not take reasonable steps to agree a tenancy by the deadline.

Checking the contract

The landlord or agent should send you a tenancy agreement to look at before you sign.

Find out what to look for in a tenancy agreement.

If you sign a tenancy agreement

The landlord or agent can either:

  • return your holding deposit within 7 days

  • put your holding deposit money towards a security deposit or first rent payment if you agree

Most private renters have assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs).

If you agree that your holding deposit can be kept towards a security deposit, it must be protected within 30 days under tenancy deposit protection rules.

Last updated: 30 April 2024

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