TDS (Tenancy Deposit Scheme)
One of three government-authorised deposit schemes in England. Offers a custodial scheme (TDS Custodial) and an insured scheme (TDS Insured). Adjudication is included for disputes at end of tenancy.
At a glance
- Custodial option
- Free (TDS Custodial)
- Insured option
- Paid (TDS Insured)
- Adjudication
- Included in both options
Full guide
Read the complete landlord guide on TDS (Tenancy Deposit Scheme)
Deadlines, fines and step-by-step compliance in our in-depth resource.
Open full guideWhy TDS (Tenancy Deposit Scheme) matters for landlords
TDS is strong on dispute adjudication, which is the part most landlords only think about once a tenancy has ended badly. Its published case studies are a practical library of how adjudicators weigh check-out reports against check-in inventory. Regardless of scheme choice, a dated check-in inventory with photos is worth more than any tenancy-agreement clause at deposit-dispute time.
Official sources
LetCompliance editorial reviews this entry every quarter against the sources above. Always confirm specific duties with a qualified solicitor or your local council.
Related terms
Deposit Protection Scheme
A government-authorised scheme that holds or insures tenancy deposits. Three schemes are approved in England: DPS (Deposit Protection Service), TDS (Tenancy Deposit Scheme) and mydeposits. Deposits must be protected within 30 days of receipt.
Deposit Cap
The limit on tenancy deposits set by the Tenant Fees Act 2019. Five weeks' rent where annual rent is under £50,000, six weeks' rent where rent is £50,000 or more. Holding deposits are separately capped at one week's rent.
DPS (Deposit Protection Service)
The largest of the three government-authorised deposit protection schemes in England. Offers both custodial (free) and insured deposit protection. Landlords upload deposits within 30 days and issue Prescribed Information to the tenant.
mydeposits
One of the three government-authorised deposit protection schemes in England. Offers custodial and insured options. Deposits must be protected within 30 days of receipt.
Tenant Fees Act 2019
Legislation banning most fees charged to tenants in England. Permitted payments are limited to rent, a refundable tenancy deposit (capped at 5 or 6 weeks), a holding deposit (1 week), default fees, tenant change fees and early termination fees. Breaches carry fines up to £30,000.
Accelerated Possession
A fast-track court procedure used under a Section 21 notice in England and Wales. Abolished for new claims from 1 May 2026 because Section 21 no longer exists. Possession is now pursued under Section 8 using a specified ground.