As a tenant in the UK you have strong legal protections. Many international students don't know their rights and end up losing deposits unfairly or living in unsafe conditions. This guide covers what your landlord must do — and what you can do if they don't.
By law your landlord must place your deposit in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days of receiving it. The three schemes are: Deposit Protection Service (DPS), MyDeposits, or Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS). Ask your landlord which scheme they use and get the certificate. If they don't protect it, you can claim up to 3x the deposit amount in court.
Take photos and videos of every room on the day you move in — walls, floors, furniture, appliances, any existing damage. Send these to your landlord by email on the same day so there's a time-stamped record. This is your main protection against unfair deposit deductions when you leave.
Your landlord is legally required to: (1) Provide a valid Gas Safety Certificate every year, (2) Ensure electrical installations are safe, (3) Install working smoke alarms on every floor, (4) Fix structural problems, heating issues, or damp when reported. Report all issues in writing (email) so there's a record.
Your landlord must return your deposit within 10 days of you both agreeing on the amount. If they make deductions you disagree with, use the free dispute resolution service provided by whichever deposit scheme holds your money — you don't need a solicitor. Take this route before considering court.
Contact your local council's housing team — they have enforcement powers. You can also contact Shelter (free housing charity advice) or Citizens Advice. For deposit disputes use the scheme's free resolution service. Do not withhold rent without legal advice as this can backfire.
Never rent without a written tenancy agreement (contract). It should state: monthly rent, deposit amount, notice period, what bills are included, and who is responsible for repairs. If your landlord refuses to provide one, that is a red flag — walk away.