Raising a deposit dispute with TDS

What is a deposit dispute?

When a tenancy comes to an end, there is usually no disagreement about the return of the deposit. But sometimes there is - which means that either the landlord or the tenant(s) can't agree how much of the deposit is to be returned.

TDS will only adjudicate where the landlord and tenant(s) have already made a reasonable attempt to resolve the dispute, in conjunction with the agent (where one is involved).

We can only deal with claims for deductions from a tenant's deposit. Any awards we make cannot be for more than the amount of the deposit.

If you have a dispute that covers other issues, please seek independent advice on the options available to you.

Can I raise my deposit dispute with TDS?

Tenants, landlords or agents can raise deposit disputes with us.

 We can only consider a dispute if the deposit:

• is registered with TDS, and

• was protected by us when your tenancy ended.

To check if your deposit is registered with TDS, raise or check on the progress of a dispute, please use the search form in Is my deposit registered? to locate your tenancy deposit record.

How do I raise my deposit dispute with TDS? 

• Confirm that the deposit is registered with TDS -  use the search form in Is my deposit registered?
• Complete the TDS Notification of Deposit Dispute process online
  This process may not be available online if a dispute has been raised by another party.  If you are unable to submit a dispute form online by entering your UID code, please call our contact centre on 0845 226 7837 or email deposits@tds.gb.com for more information on the progress of the dispute. Alternatively, please PRINT off a hard copy of the TDS2 form and post to Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS), PO Box 1255, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP1 9GN
• Download and print the completed form
• Check and sign the form
• Send your form to TDS with the Tenancy Agreement and any other documents you want us to consider
• Keep a copy of what you send us for your own records
• If you are the deposit holder, please send us the amount in dispute by BACS or cheque

NB: You can also download the Notification of Deposit Dispute form, complete it manually and post it with the Tenancy Agreement and any other documents you want us to consider.

How do I check on the progress of my deposit dispute? 

• Use the search form in Check progress of a dispute to locate the deposit protection record
• If a dispute is registered, this record will be updated with the dispute progress or outcome