How much deposit can a landlord legally ask for in the UK?
Five weeks, six weeks, protected within 30 days — here's exactly what the law allows and what landlords can't add on top.
Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, a deposit is capped at five weeks' rent where annual rent is under £50,000, or six weeks' rent where annual rent is £50,000 or more. This cap already covers pet-related damage, so landlords cannot ask for a separate pet deposit. Deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receipt.
The deposit cap explained
- Five weeks' rent where the annual rent is under £50,000.
- Six weeks' rent where the annual rent is £50,000 or more.
- The cap already covers potential pet damage — no separate pet deposit can be charged on top.
Where your deposit has to be protected
Any deposit taken must be protected in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days of receipt. The landlord must also give the tenant the prescribed information about how the deposit is protected. This is a hard deadline — missing it can affect a landlord's ability to serve certain notices and can lead to penalties.
What landlords can and can't deduct at the end of a tenancy
At the end of a tenancy, the property only needs to be returned to the condition it was in at the start — fair wear and tear excepted. Tenants cannot be charged for professional cleaning as a standard requirement. Deductions should relate to genuine damage or unpaid rent, not a general expectation that the property is professionally cleaned.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum deposit a landlord can ask for?
Five weeks' rent if annual rent is under £50,000, or six weeks' rent if annual rent is £50,000 or more, under the Tenant Fees Act 2019.
Does the deposit cap cover pet damage?
Yes. The cap already covers potential pet damage, so landlords cannot charge a separate pet deposit on top.
How long does a landlord have to protect a deposit?
Within 30 days of receiving it, in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.
Hull landlords who'd rather have compliance, licensing and management handled for them — or tenants with a question about a notice they've received — can talk to the team at Property Central.