Holding deposits

Get a holding deposit refund

The landlord or agent must tell you why they are keeping the holding deposit.

If they do not write to you with a reason within 7 days you have the right to a full refund, whatever the reason.

Copy our letter template into an email to the agent.

[Use the subject: Holding deposit refund]

I am asking for a full refund of my holding deposit.

I paid you £xxx on [date] to reserve a property at [address].

The tenancy did not go ahead because [give reason].

Please return my full holding deposit within 7 days. You have no legal reason to keep it.

If I do not hear from you, I may complain to Trading Standards or your redress scheme. You could be fined or ordered to pay compensation.

You can also send the letter as an email attachment or by post:

All letting agents and property management companies must belong to a redress scheme.

This is an independent organisation that looks into customer complaints about agents.

You can go to a letting agent redress scheme if the agent does not refund your money.

The scheme can look into your complaint and may tell the agent to compensate you.

Trading standards are part of your local council.

Citizens Advice consumer helpline can help report an agent to trading standards if they do not give your money back.

Trading standards could help you apply to a tribunal to get your money back and can fine the landlord or agent.

Last updated: 30 April 2024