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How long does a landlord have to return my deposit?Beta*

Deposits
Private renting in England since the Renters' Rights Act 2025, unless the question says otherwise. General information, not legal advice.

Once you and the landlord agree how much you'll get back, it must be returned within 10 days. If you can't agree, the disputed part stays protected in the scheme until it's settled, and the rest should be paid to you. If you hear nothing, write to the landlord or agent asking for the deposit back. If that gets no reply, contact the scheme directly: it can start the return process for you 14 days after the tenancy ends.

Sources: GOV.UK: tenancy deposit protectionShelter: how long a deposit refund takes

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Savvy Renter — savvyrenter.co.uk · free tools for renters. Answers checked 15 October 2026. The full list is also published as faq.json.
* Beta: new page, not yet reviewed by a housing adviser. General information, not legal advice.